You have many choices when attempting to insure your vehicle. You can buy direct from a local agent or go online to check prices from many different companies. Finding cheaper auto insurance from online companies can be fast and easy, in addition you might just save a little.

If you are a novice to online auto insurance shopping, you may be confused by the hoards of online auto insurance companies and websites vying for your business. Getting cheaper insurance rates is actually quite simple. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes to get quotes provided by online insurance companies. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by completing this short form.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Auto insurance rates for your 2009 can vary widely depending on several factors. A few of these criteria are:

• Higher performance 2009 vehicles cost more
• Any accidents you may have
• Home/auto policy bundles save money
• Pleasure, commuting or business use can affect rates
• Optional coverages like vehicle replacement
• Claims drive up premiums
• Having continuous coverage saves you money
• Owning a home can lower rates

A final factor which can affect is the model year. New vehicles have a higher actual cash value in comparison to later models so the cost to replace them can inflate annual premiums. Although more recent vehicles may have a trim level with safety features included like an advanced theft deterrent system, all-wheel drive, and traction control which can give discounted rates.

Liability coverage

This coverage will cover injuries or damage you cause to other's property or people that is your fault. Liability coverage pays for claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. Coverage is generally pretty cheap so consider buying higher limits if possible.

Auto collision coverage

This will pay to fix damage to your resulting from colliding with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You will need to pay your 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. It's also possible to bump up the deductible in order to get cheaper .

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays to fix your vehicle from 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 payout a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the ACV or actual cash value, so if the vehicle's value is low it's not worth carrying full coverage.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This coverage protects you and your vehicle from other motorists when they are uninsured or don't have enough coverage. Since a lot of drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. This is the reason having UM/UIM coverage should not be overlooked.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage pay for bills (i.e. ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits). They are utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if you are not covered by health insurance. Personal Injury Protection is only offered in select states but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.