Shopping for car insurance through online providers 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 rates from all providers so you can get every company's rates.

Comparing car insurance rates direct online is challenging if you are a beginner to online quotes. But relax because it's actually quite easy. There are several ways to compare rate quotes from different insurance companies. The simplest method to find competitive consists of shopping online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by completing this short form.

What factors determine your insurance rates?

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

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• Annual mileage can affect rates
• Male drivers pay higher rates
• Low deductibles cost more
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your occupation
• The level of coverage
• Whether you rent or own your home

An additional factor that will help determine is the year of the vehicle. Older cars and trucks have a reduced actual cash value than newer models so the costs to repair may end up costing you less. Conversely, new models may have safety features such as tire pressure monitors, sideview assist mirrors, active head restraints, and adaptive cruise control which can give discounted rates.

Liability auto insurance

This provides protection from damages or injuries you inflict on a person or their property by causing an accident. 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.

Coverage for collisions

Collision coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage from colliding with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. This coverage can be expensive, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from older vehicles. It's also possible to raise the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive (Other than Collision)

This pays to fix your vehicle from 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 the vehicle's value is low consider removing comprehensive coverage.

Protection from uninsured/underinsured drivers

This protects you and your vehicle from other drivers when they either have no liability insurance or not enough. Due to the fact that many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. So UM/UIM coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Medical expense insurance

Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for expenses such as doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are used to cover expenses not covered by your health insurance policy or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is not universally available but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.