Comparing auto insurance by quoting online saves time, is easy to do, in addition you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is to take the time to get rates from all companies so you can compare the lowest priced insurance.

Using the web to shop for auto insurance direct can be complicated if you are a beginner to online quotes. But don't be discouraged because comparing prices is actually very simple. Getting better is a fairly straight forward process. Just take time to get quotes online from several insurance companies. This can be done by visiting this page.

Criteria which help determine insurance rates

Auto insurance rates on a 2004 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. A few of these criteria are:

  • Tickets increase premiums
  • Credit rating
  • Men typically pay more than women
  • Higher deductibles save money
  • NTSB crash rating for your vehicle
  • Claims drive up premiums
  • No coverage lapses saves money
  • Owning a home can lower rates

A final factor that can impact is the model year. A newer vehicle have a higher value in comparison to later models so the costs to repair can inflate annual premiums. Conversely, more recent vehicles may have a trim level with safety features such as pedestrian detection, automatic crash notification, and tire pressure monitors which can provide discounts that lower premiums.

Liability coverages - This will cover injuries or damage you cause to people or other property. Liability coverage pays for claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. It is cheap coverage so consider buying higher limits if possible.

Collision coverage - This coverage will pay to fix damage to your resulting from a collision with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage for your 2004 can be pricey, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are older. Another option is to bump up the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverages - This coverage will pay to fix damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The maximum payout a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the cash value of the vehicle, so if the vehicle is not worth much it's not worth carrying full coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This coverage gives you protection from other drivers when they are uninsured or don't have enough coverage. Because many people only purchase the least amount of liability that is required, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. So UM/UIM coverage is a good idea.

Coverage for medical payments - Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage kick in for bills (i.e. ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits). The coverages can be used in conjunction with a health insurance policy or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is only offered in select states but can be used in place of medical payments coverage.