You have many choices when attempting to insure your vehicle. You can either buy through an agent or shop online to compare rates from a lot of auto insurance companies. Finding cheaper auto insurance through online companies is easy, in addition you can save money.

Consumers who are new to the process of comparing rates may think buying cut-rate 2008 insurance is difficult. Getting cheaper insurance rates is not a difficult process. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes getting comparison quotes from different insurance companies. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Car insurance premiums for your 2008 will vary greatly based upon several criteria. A few of these criteria are:

• The performance level of your 2008
• Your accident history
• Home/auto policy bundles save money
• Pleasure, commuting or business use can affect rates
• Your age
• Whether you are married
• Optional coverages like vehicle replacement
• Your claim history
• No coverage lapses saves money
• Owning a home can lower rates

An additional factor which can affect is the year of the vehicle. Newer models have a higher actual cash value than older models so repair costs are higher which will push premiums up. Conversely, newer models may have safety features such as pedestrian detection, a collision avoidance system, and adaptive headlights so those may lower rates.

Coverage for liability

Liability insurance protects you from injuries or damage you cause to other's property or people that is your fault. Liability insurance covers claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. Liability insurance is relatively cheap so you should buy as much as you can afford.

Auto collision coverage

This pays for damage to your resulting from colliding with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You have to pay a deductible and then insurance will cover the remainder. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so consider dropping it from older vehicles. You can also raise the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverage (or Other than Collision)

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays for damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. You first have to pay a deductible and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The maximum amount a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the actual cash value, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible consider dropping full coverage.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This coverage protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other drivers when they do not carry enough liability coverage. Since a lot of drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, it only takes a small accident to exceed their coverage. So UM/UIM coverage should not be overlooked.

Insurance for medical payments

Med pay and PIP coverage provide coverage for bills such as 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. PIP is not available in all states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.