Finding cheaper auto insurance from online companies saves time, is easy to do, in addition you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is to compare rates from as many companies as possible in order to accurately compare the cheapest rate quotes.

Finding the best direct price on auto insurance can be complicated if you are a beginner to online rate quotes. Don't let that stop you because comparing prices is actually very simple. Finding lower is actually quite simple. You just have to spend a little time to get quotes online from several insurance companies. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by getting a quick quote here.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Auto insurance rates for your 2004 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
  • The deductible you choose
  • NTSB crash rating for your vehicle
  • Claims drive up premiums
  • Having current coverage saves
  • Owning a home can lower rates

A final factor which can affect is the model year. Models that are new have a higher actual cash value in comparison to later models so the costs to repair will push premiums up. On the flip side, newer vehicles may have a trim level with safety features like lane departure warning system, dual-stage airbags, and pedestrian detection so those may help offset higher rates.

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

Collision coverage - This covers damage to your resulting from colliding 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 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 coverage - Comprehensive insurance coverage covers damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The maximum amount a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the cash value of the vehicle, so if your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This coverage provides protection when other motorists either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Since a lot of drivers carry very low liability coverage limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. That's why carrying high Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage should not be overlooked.

Medical payments coverage and PIP - Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP kick in for bills (i.e. ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits). They can be utilized in addition to your health insurance plan or if you lack health insurance entirely. PIP coverage is not an option in every state and may carry a deductible.