Shopping for car insurance from 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 in order to accurately compare the lowest rate quotes.

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 car insurance companies in your area. By far the easiest way to find the cheapest consists of shopping online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by getting a quick quote here.

What factors determine the rate you pay?

Car insurance premiums paid to insure a 2008 will vary greatly and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Your credit history
• Men typically pay more than women
• The deductible you choose
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your occupation
• The amount of protection requested
• 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. But more recent vehicles may have safety features including pedestrian detection, tire pressure monitors, and autonomous braking so those may help offset higher rates.

Liability insurance

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.

Collision insurance

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. Drivers also have the option to raise the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive protection

This covers 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 your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value it's not worth carrying full coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)

This provides protection when the "other guys" are uninsured or don't have enough coverage. Due to the fact that many drivers carry very low liability coverage limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. For this reason, having high UM/UIM coverages is important protection for you and your family.

Medical expense coverage

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage kick in for expenses such as doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They can be used to cover expenses not covered by your health insurance plan or if there is no health insurance coverage. PIP coverage is only offered in select states and may carry a deductible.