Buying auto insurance from online companies saves time, is easy to do and there is a good chance you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is to take the time to get as many rate quotes as possible in order to have all possible prices.

Shopping online for auto insurance can be a challenge if you are a beginner to online quotes. But don't let that discourage you because comparing prices is actually very simple. Finding cheaper coverage prices is actually quite simple. All you need to do is take the time to get quotes online from several insurance companies. This can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

Auto insurance rates for a 2009 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. Some of these factors include:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating
• Male rates may be higher
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Safety rating of your 2009
• Claims drive up premiums
• Having current coverage saves
• Whether you own your home

A final factor that helps determine is the model year. Newer models cost more in comparison to later models so the costs to repair can inflate annual premiums. On the flip side, newer vehicles may have a trim level with safety features like forward-collision avoidance, a collision avoidance system, dual-stage airbags, and all-wheel drive which can lower rates.

Liability coverage

This can cover damage that occurs to other people or property in an accident. Liability coverage pays for things like legal defense fees, bail bonds, and repair bills for other people's vehicles. It is cheap coverage so consider buying higher limits if possible.

Collision protection

Collision insurance covers damage to your caused by collision with another car or object. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. 2009 collision insurance is rather expensive coverage, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are older. You can also bump up the deductible to get cheaper .

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive insurance pays for damage OTHER than collision with another vehicle or object. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The maximum payout you'll receive from a claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Uninsured or underinsured coverage

Your UM/UIM coverage protects you and your vehicle's occupants when other motorists either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Since many drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. That's why carrying high Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage is very important.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP kick in for short-term medical expenses (i.e. nursing services, prosthetic devices, and dental work). They are often used to fill the gap from your health insurance policy or if you lack health insurance entirely. PIP coverage is not an option in every state and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.