Comparing auto insurance through online rate quotes can be fast and easy, in addition you might just save a little. The most important part is to compare rates from as many companies as possible in order to have the lowest prices.

If you've never shopped for auto insurance online, you may be confused by the hoards of online auto insurance companies and websites vying for your business. Cutting your can be surprisingly simple. Drivers just need to take a couple of minutes to get quotes provided by online insurance companies. This can be done by comparing rates here.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Auto insurance rates for your 2002 will vary greatly depending on several factors. A few of these criteria are:

• A clean driving record keeps rates low
• Your credit history
• Male rates may be higher
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• 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. Newer models have a higher value in comparison to later models so the cost to replace them will push premiums up. Conversely, newer vehicles may have a trim level with safety features such as an advanced theft deterrent system, traction control, lane departure warning system, and dual-stage airbags so those may lower rates.

Auto liability - This coverage can cover injuries or damage you cause to other's property or people. Liability insurance covers claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. Coverage is generally pretty cheap so consider buying as much as you can afford.

Collision - This coverage covers damage to your resulting from colliding with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. 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 vehicles that are older. You can also bump up the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive auto coverage - Comprehensive insurance coverage pays for damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. A deductible will apply and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The maximum amount a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the ACV or actual cash value, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

UM/UIM Coverage - This coverage protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other drivers when they either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Because many people only carry the minimum required liability limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. So UM/UIM coverage is a good idea.

Medical payments and PIP coverage - Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP pay for bills (i.e. ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits). They are often utilized in addition to your health insurance plan or if you do not have health coverage. Personal Injury Protection is not an option in every state and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.