Buying car insurance through online providers can be fast and easy, in addition you might just save a little. The most important part is getting rates from as many companies as possible in order to accurately compare the cheapest rate quotes.

If you're new to shopping for car insurance online, you may be confused by the hoards of online car insurance companies and websites vying for your business. When shopping for car insurance there are multiple ways to compare quotes from car insurance companies in your area. The recommended way to find the cheapest is to get quotes online. This is very easy and can be done by getting a quick quote here.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Auto insurance rates for your 1997 can be significantly different depending on several factors. A few of these criteria are:

• A clean driving record keeps rates low
• Better credit means lower rates
• Your gender can raise or lower rates
• The deductible you choose
• NTSB crash rating for your vehicle
• What you do for a living
• The amount of protection requested
• Owning a home can lower rates

A final factor that helps determine is the model year. Older models have a much lower replacement value in comparison to older models so the payout to repair may result in lower rates. But newer models may have a trim level with safety features including active head restraints, an advanced theft deterrent system, and lane departure warning system that may help help offset higher rates.

Liability auto insurance - This coverage protects you from injuries or damage you cause to other's property or people in an accident. Liability coverage protects against claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. Coverage is generally pretty cheap so consider buying as large an amount as possible.

Collision coverage - Collision insurance pays for damage to your resulting from colliding with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You first must 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. Drivers also have the option to bump up the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive (Other than Collision) - Comprehensive insurance coverage covers 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 highest amount a car insurance company will pay at claim time is the ACV or actual cash value, so if your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value consider dropping full coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This coverage provides protection when the "other guys" do not carry enough liability coverage. Since many drivers carry very low liability coverage limits, their liability coverage can quickly be exhausted. For this reason, having high UM/UIM coverages is very important.

Medical expense insurance - Med pay and PIP coverage pay for bills (i.e. ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits). They can be utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if there is no health insurance coverage. Personal Injury Protection is not available in all states and may carry a deductible.