Comparing car insurance online saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you can save money. The key to finding lower rates is to take the time to get as many rate quotes as possible in order to have all possible prices.

Using the web to shop for car insurance direct is challenging if you are a beginner to online quotes. But don't let that discourage you because it's actually quite easy. There are several ways to compare quotes and find the best price. The easiest way by far to compare involves getting comparison quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

What factors determine your insurance rates?

Car insurance premiums for a 2003 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating
• Your gender can raise or lower rates
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your occupation
• Insurance coverage level
• Whether you rent or own your home

An additional factor that can impact is the year of the vehicle. Used vehicles have a reduced actual cash value than newer models so repair costs tend to be lower which may end up costing you less. Although newer models may have safety features included like forward-collision avoidance, sideview assist mirrors, and all-wheel drive which can lower rates.

Liability coverage

This protects you from damages or injuries you inflict on other people or property. Liability coverage pays for things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so you should buy higher limits if possible.

Collision protection

This coverage pays for damage to your caused by collision with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. 2003 collision insurance is rather expensive coverage, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from older vehicles. You can also raise the deductible in order to get cheaper .

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive insurance pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible consider dropping full coverage.

Uninsured or underinsured coverage

This protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other motorists when they do not carry enough liability coverage. Because many people only carry the minimum required liability limits, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. This is the reason having UM/UIM coverage is a good idea.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Med pay and PIP coverage kick in for expenses such as doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are often used to fill the gap from your health insurance policy or if you are not covered by health insurance. PIP coverage is not available in all states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.