You have lots of choices when attempting to insure your vehicle. You can get prices from an agent or go online to compare rates from a lot of auto insurance companies. Comparing auto insurance through online companies can be fast and easy and at the same time you can save money.

If you've never shopped for auto insurance online, it's easy to be confused by the hoards of online auto insurance companies and websites offering insurance. Getting cheaper insurance rates is not a difficult process. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes getting comparison quotes provided by online insurance companies. This can be done by comparing rates here.

Which factors influence the rate you pay?

Car insurance premiums for your 1998 will vary greatly depending on several factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Higher performance 1998 vehicles cost more
• Your accident history
• Home and auto can earn discounts
• Pleasure, commuting or business use can affect rates
• Your age
• Whether you are married
• Special coverage such as replacement cost
• Your claim history
• Maintaining coverage lowers rates
• Whether you rent or own your home

An additional factor that can impact is the year of the vehicle. Newer models have a higher value than older models so the cost to replace them will push premiums up. But newer models may have safety features including pedestrian detection, a collision avoidance system, and adaptive headlights so those may lower rates.

Coverage for liability

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

Auto collision coverage

This coverage pays for damage to your resulting from colliding with an object or car. You have to pay a deductible then your collision coverage will kick in. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so you might think about dropping it from older vehicles. You can also raise the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive coverage (or Other than Collision)

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. A deductible will apply and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The maximum amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the ACV or actual cash value, 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 when the "other guys" do not carry enough liability coverage. Because many people only carry the minimum required liability limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. For this reason, having high UM/UIM coverages is a good idea.

Insurance for medical payments

Med pay and PIP coverage pay for expenses such as doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are often utilized in addition to your health insurance plan or if there is no health insurance coverage. Personal Injury Protection is not available in all states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.