Buying car insurance through online companies saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you may find lower rates. The key to finding lower rates is to compare rates from as many companies as possible in order to have all your choices.

Shopping online for car insurance is challenging if you are a beginner to online rate quotes. Don't let that stop you because we're going to show you how. The are a couple different ways to compare quotes from different insurance companies. The fastest way to compare is to get quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

What factors determine the rate you pay?

Insurance premiums for your 2008 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Your credit history
• Where you live
• High miles vs. low miles
• Your gender can raise or lower rates
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your job
• The level of coverage
• Whether you rent or own your home

One important consideration that helps determine your rates is the age of the vehicle. Older models have a reduced actual cash value compared to new models so the payout to repair may end up costing you less. Conversely, newer models have more advanced features such as pedestrian detection, a collision avoidance system, and adaptive headlights so those may lower rates.

Coverage for liability

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

Auto collision coverage

Collision insurance pays for damage to your 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 lower value vehicles. You can also increase the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverage (or Other than Collision)

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible then your comprehensive coverage will pay. The maximum amount 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.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other drivers when they do not carry enough liability coverage. Since many drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. So UM/UIM coverage is very important.

Insurance for medical payments

Med pay and PIP coverage kick in for expenses like doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are often utilized in addition to your health insurance plan or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is not available in all states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.