Shopping for car insurance from online rate quotes is easy, in addition you can save money. The key is getting rates from as many companies as possible so you can get every company's rates.

Consumers not familiar with comparing rates may think shopping for cut-rate 2004 insurance is more work than they want to put in. There are several ways of comparing rates from local car insurance companies. The simplest method to find competitive consists of shopping online. This is very easy and can be done by completing this short form.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Car insurance premiums for your 2004 can be significantly different based upon several criteria. A few of these criteria are:

• Your driving record
• Better credit means lower rates
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• High miles vs. low miles
• Male rates may be higher
• Low deductibles cost more
• NTSB crash rating for your vehicle
• Your occupation
• Your coverage level
• Owning a home can lower rates

An additional factor that will help determine is the year of the vehicle. Older cars and trucks have a much lower replacement value than newer models so the payout to repair will push premiums down. On the flip side, newer vehicles may have safety features like tire pressure monitors, anti-lock brakes, and forward-collision avoidance that may help give discounted rates.

Liability insurance

Liability insurance can cover injuries or damage you cause to other's property or people by causing an accident. Liability coverage protects against claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. Liability insurance is relatively cheap so you should buy as large an amount as possible.

Coverage for collisions

Collision coverage covers damage to your resulting from colliding with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You first must pay a deductible and then insurance will cover the remainder. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so consider dropping it from older vehicles. It's also possible to raise the deductible to get cheaper .

Comprehensive protection

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. You first have to pay a deductible and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The highest amount a car insurance company will pay at claim time is the actual cash value, so if the vehicle's value is low it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Protection from uninsured/underinsured drivers

This coverage protects you and your vehicle when other motorists either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Due to the fact that many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, their liability coverage can quickly be exhausted. That's why carrying high Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Medical expense coverage

Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP provide coverage for bills such as ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits. They are utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if you lack health insurance entirely. PIP is not an option in every state but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.