You have lots of choices when attempting to insure your vehicle. You can buy direct from an agent or go online to check prices from multiple insurance companies. Buying auto insurance on the web can be fast and easy and at the same time you can save money.

If you're new to shopping for auto insurance online, it's easy to be confused by the hoards of companies offering insurance. Getting cheaper insurance rates isn't really that difficult. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes getting comparison quotes provided by online insurance companies. This can be accomplished by completing this short form.

Which factors influence your insurance rates?

Car insurance premiums on a 2011 can vary widely depending on several factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Higher performance 2011 vehicles cost more
• Any accidents you may have
• Multiple policies can save money
• Pleasure use vs. commuting use
• Your birth date
• Having a spouse can save money
• Special coverage such as replacement cost
• Your claim history
• Maintaining coverage lowers rates
• Whether you rent or own your home

An additional factor that helps determine is the year of the vehicle. New vehicles cost more than older models so the cost to replace them can inflate annual premiums. But newer vehicles may have safety features including automatic crash notification, anti-lock brakes, and a backup camera which can give discounted rates.

Liability car insurance

This coverage can cover damages or injuries you inflict on people or other property in an accident. Liability coverage pays for things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. Coverage is generally pretty cheap so you should buy higher limits if possible.

Auto collision coverage

Collision insurance covers damage to your resulting from a collision with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible then your collision coverage will kick in. Collision coverage for your 2011 can be pricey, so you might think about dropping it from older vehicles. It's also possible to raise the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive auto insurance

This coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage that is not covered by collision coverage. A deductible will apply and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the ACV or actual cash value, so if the vehicle's value is low it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This protects you and your vehicle when the "other guys" either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Since many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. For this reason, having high UM/UIM coverages is very important.

Coverage for medical expenses

Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP pay for expenses such as doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are used in conjunction with a health insurance policy or if there is no health insurance coverage. Personal Injury Protection is not an option in every state but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.