Shopping for car insurance by quoting online saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is getting rates from as many companies as possible in order to have all possible prices.

Comparing car insurance rates direct online is challenging if you are a beginner to quoting online. Don't let that stop you because comparing prices is actually very simple. When shopping for car insurance there are multiple ways to get quotes from different insurance companies. The easiest way by far to compare consists of shopping online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

What factors determine car insurance premiums?

Auto insurance rates for your 2003 can be significantly different and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Better credit means lower rates
• Men typically pay more than women
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• What you do for a living
• The level of coverage
• Whether you rent or own your home

A final factor that will help determine is the model year. Older cars and trucks have a reduced actual cash value in comparison to older models so the payout to repair may end up costing you less. Conversely, more recent vehicles may have a trim level with safety features such as automatic crash notification, blind-spot warning system, and an advanced theft deterrent system that may help lower rates.

Liability coverages

This will cover damages or injuries you inflict on other's property or people by causing an accident. Liability coverage protects against things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so consider buying as large an amount as possible.

Collision protection

Collision coverage will pay to fix damage to your resulting from colliding with an object or car. You first must pay a deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are older. You can also bump up the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverages

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The highest amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible it's not worth carrying full coverage.

Uninsured or underinsured coverage

This protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other drivers when they are uninsured or don't have enough coverage. Due to the fact that many drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, their liability coverage can quickly be exhausted. So UM/UIM coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Coverage for medical payments

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage kick in for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They are often utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is only offered in select states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.