Finding cheaper car insurance by comparing rates online saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you can save money. The key to finding lower rates is getting rates from as many companies as possible in order to have the cheapest rate quotes.

Finding the best direct price on car insurance is challenging if you are a beginner to quoting online. Don't let that stop you because it's actually quite easy. There are several ways to compare quotes from different insurance companies. The recommended way to compare is to perform an online rate comparison. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

What factors determine car insurance premiums?

Car insurance premiums for your 1996 can be significantly different and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Better credit means lower rates
• Your gender can raise or lower rates
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your occupation
• The level of coverage
• Whether you rent or own your home

An additional factor which can affect is the year of the vehicle. Models that are a few years old have a reduced actual cash value than newer models so the payout to repair may end up costing you less. Conversely, newer models may have safety features such as a backup camera, an advanced theft deterrent system, dual-stage airbags, and pedestrian detection that may help lower rates.

Auto liability insurance - This protects you from damages or injuries you inflict on other's property or people that is your fault. Liability coverage protects against things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so you should buy as large an amount as possible.

Collision coverage - This pays for 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 older vehicles. You can also raise the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive insurance - Comprehensive insurance coverage pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. 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 consider dropping full coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other drivers when they do not carry enough liability coverage. Since a lot of drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, their liability coverage can quickly be exhausted. So UM/UIM coverage should not be overlooked.

Med pay and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) - Med pay and PIP coverage kick in for expenses such as 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 not available in all states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.