Shopping for auto insurance online 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 compare rates from as many companies as possible so you can get every possible rate.

Comparing auto insurance rates direct online is challenging if you are a beginner to online rate quotes. Don't let that stop you because comparing prices is actually very simple. Reducing your is not rocket science. All that's required is to spend a few minutes on the computer to get quotes online from several insurance companies. This is very easy and can be done by completing this short form.

What factors determine the rate you pay?

Auto insurance rates for your 2001 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Your credit history
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• High miles vs. low miles
• Male drivers pay higher rates
• Low deductibles cost more
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Claims drive up premiums
• No coverage lapses saves money
• Whether you rent or own your home

A final factor that will help determine is the model year. New vehicles have a higher replacement value in comparison to later models so the costs to repair will push premiums up. Conversely, new models may have a trim level with safety features such as forward-collision avoidance, tire pressure monitors, and autonomous braking so those may give discounted rates.

Liability coverage

This provides protection from damages or injuries you inflict on other's property or people by causing an accident. Liability insurance covers things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so consider buying as much as you can afford.

Collision coverage protection

Collision coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage resulting from colliding with an object or car. 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. It's also possible to bump up the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays to fix your vehicle from 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 amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if the vehicle's value is low consider removing comprehensive coverage.

Coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers

This protects you and your vehicle from other drivers when they either have no liability insurance or not enough. Due to the fact that many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. So UM/UIM coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They are utilized in addition to your health insurance plan or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is not universally available but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.