Shopping for car insurance through online rate quotes saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you can save money. The key to finding lower rates is to compare rates from all providers so you can get all your choices.

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

What factors determine the rate you pay?

Car insurance premiums paid to insure a 2004 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Your credit history
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• Annual mileage can affect rates
• Men typically pay more than women
• Low deductibles cost more
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your occupation
• Your coverage level
• 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. On the flip side, more recent vehicles may have safety features like autonomous braking, an advanced theft deterrent system, a telematics system, and adaptive headlights so those may give discounted rates.

Auto liability

This will cover damages or injuries you inflict on a person or their property by causing an accident. Liability insurance covers things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so you should buy as much as you can afford.

Auto collision coverage

Collision coverage will pay to fix damage to your from colliding with an object or car. You have to pay a 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 get cheaper .

Comprehensive auto coverage

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 amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if the vehicle's value is low it's not worth carrying full coverage.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This protects you and your vehicle when other motorists are uninsured or don't have enough coverage. Due to the fact that many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. That's why carrying high Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Medical payments and PIP coverage

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage 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 plan or if you lack health insurance entirely. PIP coverage is only offered in select states but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.