Finding cheaper auto insurance by comparing rates online saves time, is easy to do, in addition you can save money. The key to finding lower rates is to compare rates from all companies in order to have the best prices.

Finding the best direct price on auto insurance can be complicated if you are a beginner to online rate quotes. But don't be discouraged because it's actually quite easy. Finding a better price on auto insurance can be quick and easy. Consumers just need to spend a few minutes getting comparison quotes online from several insurance companies. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

Criteria which help determine insurance rates

Car insurance premiums on a 1997 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. A few of these criteria are:

  • Tickets increase premiums
  • Your credit history
  • Male rates may be higher
  • Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
  • NTSB crash rating for your vehicle
  • Your claim history
  • No coverage lapses saves money
  • Owning a home can lower rates

An additional factor which can affect is the year of the vehicle. Newer models have a higher actual cash value than older models so the costs to repair will push premiums up. Conversely, newer vehicles may have safety features such as forward-collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and active head restraints so those may lower rates.

Auto liability insurance - This can cover injuries or damage you cause to people or other property that is your fault. Liability insurance covers claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. It is cheap coverage so you should buy as much as you can afford.

Collision coverages - This covers damage to your resulting from a collision with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You have to pay a deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage for your 1997 can be pricey, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from older vehicles. You can also raise the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive insurance - This coverage pays for damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. You first must pay your deductible and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The maximum amount a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the cash value of the vehicle, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Uninsured and underinsured coverage - This coverage protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other drivers when they either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Since a lot of drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. So UM/UIM coverage should not be overlooked.

Med pay and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) - Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP kick in for bills such as ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits. They are often used in conjunction with a health insurance plan or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is not an option in every state and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.