Comparing auto insurance by getting online quotes saves time, is easy to do, plus you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is to get as many rate quotes as possible in order to have all your choices.

Using the web to shop for auto insurance direct can be difficult if you are a beginner to online quoting. But don't let that discourage you because comparing prices is actually very simple. Getting cheaper insurance rates can be relatively painless. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes to get quotes online from several insurance companies. This can be done by comparing rates here.

Rates are determined by the following

Auto insurance rates for a 1998 can fluctuate considerably and are calculated by many factors. Including but not limited to:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating impacts rates
• Your location impacts rates
• How many miles you drive
• Male rates may be higher
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Crash test rating for your 1998
• Claims drive up premiums
• Maintaining coverage lowers rates
• Home ownership saves money

A final factor that can impact is the model year. Newer models have a higher value in comparison to later models so the costs to repair may result in higher rates. But newer vehicles may have a trim level with safety features including traction control, tire pressure monitors, a collision avoidance system, and a telematics system which may lower rates.

Liability

This can cover damage or injury you incur to other people or property. Liability can pay for claims like pain and suffering, repair costs for stationary objects, and legal defense fees. It is cheap coverage so consider buying as high a limit as you can afford.

Auto collision coverage

This coverage covers damage to your caused by collision with a stationary object or other vehicle. A deductible applies then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. 1998 collision insurance is rather expensive coverage, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are older. You can also bump up the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive or Other Than Collision

Comprehensive insurance pays for damage from a wide range of events other than collision. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The most your auto insurance company will pay 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.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist coverage protects you and your vehicle's occupants when the "other guys" either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Because many people only carry the minimum required liability limits, their limits can quickly be used up. For this reason, having high UM/UIM coverages is a good idea.

Medical costs insurance

Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP kick in for immediate expenses (i.e. EMT expenses, pain medications, and nursing services). They are often used to fill the gap from your health insurance program or if there is no health insurance coverage. PIP coverage is not an option in every state and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.