Buying car insurance by getting online quotes saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is to take the time to get rates from as many companies as possible in order to accurately compare the cheapest rate quotes.

Shopping online for car insurance is challenging if you are a beginner to online quotes. Don't let that stop you because comparing prices is actually very simple. When shopping for car insurance there are multiple ways to compare rate quotes from local car insurance companies. The recommended way to find the cheapest is to get quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by getting a quick quote here.

What factors determine your insurance rates?

Auto insurance rates for your 2003 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating
• Male drivers pay higher rates
• The deductible you choose
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• What you do for a living
• Your coverage level
• Whether you rent or own your home

A final factor that helps determine is the model year. Older models have a reduced actual cash value in comparison to older models so the payout to repair may end up costing you less. On the flip side, new models may have a trim level with safety features like anti-lock brakes, adaptive headlights, and adaptive cruise control which can help offset higher rates.

Liability - This provides protection from damages or injuries you inflict on other's property or people in an accident. Liability coverage pays for things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so consider buying higher limits if possible.

Collision coverage - Collision insurance pays to fix your vehicle from damage resulting from colliding with an object or car. You will need to pay your 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. Drivers also have the option to bump up the deductible to get cheaper .

Comprehensive or Other Than Collision - Comprehensive insurance coverage covers 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 maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value consider removing comprehensive coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This provides protection when other motorists either have no liability insurance or not enough. Since many drivers carry very low liability coverage limits, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. That's why carrying high Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage is very important.

Medical costs insurance - Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They can be utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if you lack health insurance entirely. PIP coverage is not universally available and may carry a deductible.