Buying car insurance from online companies saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you might just save a little. The key to finding lower rates is getting as many rate quotes as possible in order to have all possible prices.

Shopping online for car insurance is challenging if you are a beginner to quoting online. But don't let that discourage you because comparing prices is actually very simple. When shopping for car insurance there are multiple ways to compare quotes and find the best price. The easiest way by far to compare is to get quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by comparing rates here.

What factors determine car insurance premiums?

Auto insurance rates for a 2011 can be significantly different and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Better credit means lower rates
• Your gender can raise or lower rates
• Deductible amount directly impacts your rate
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• What you do for a living
• Insurance coverage level
• Whether you rent or own your home

A final factor that helps determine is the model year. Older models have a reduced actual cash value in comparison to older models so repair costs tend to be lower which may end up costing you less. Although newer models may have a trim level with safety features included like forward-collision avoidance, a collision avoidance system, dual-stage airbags, and all-wheel drive that may help lower rates.

Liability coverage

This protects you from damages or injuries you inflict on other people or property in an accident. Liability coverage protects against things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so consider buying as large an amount as possible.

Collision protection

Collision insurance pays for damage to your caused by collision with an object or car. You first must pay a deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. 2011 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 in order to get cheaper .

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive insurance pays for damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible and the remainder of the damage will be paid by your comprehensive insurance. The highest amount you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if it's not worth much more than your deductible consider dropping full coverage.

Uninsured or underinsured coverage

This protects you and your vehicle's occupants from other motorists when they do not carry enough liability coverage. Since many drivers only carry the minimum required liability limits, their liability coverage can quickly be exhausted. This is the reason having UM/UIM coverage is very important.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Med pay and PIP coverage kick in for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They are often used to fill the gap from your health insurance policy or if you are not covered by health insurance. PIP coverage is not available in all states and gives slightly broader coverage than med pay.