Shopping for auto insurance through online companies saves time, is easy to do, in addition you will probably save money. The key to finding lower rates is to take the time to get rates from as many companies as possible so you can get all your choices.

Comparing auto insurance rates direct online can be complicated if you are a beginner to online quotes. Don't let that stop you because there is an easy way to compare rates. Getting cheaper insurance rates is not a difficult process. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes comparing rates online from several insurance companies. This is very easy and can be done by completing this short form.

Criteria which help determine your insurance rates

Insurance rates for your 2000 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. A few of these criteria are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• High miles vs. low miles
• Your gender can raise or lower rates
• Low deductibles cost more
• NTSB crash rating for your vehicle
• No claims lowers premiums
• No coverage lapses saves money
• Owning a home can lower rates

One last important factor that will help determine the rate you pay on your is the year of manufacture. New vehicles have a higher replacement value so the costs to repair can inflate annual premiums. Conversely, newer models may have options such as pedestrian detection, a collision avoidance system, and adaptive headlights which can give discounted rates.

Coverage for liability

This protects you from injuries or damage you cause to other's property or people by causing an accident. Liability coverage pays for claims such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emergency aid. It is cheap coverage so purchase higher limits if possible.

Auto collision coverage

Collision coverage pays for damage to your resulting from colliding with another vehicle or an object, but not an animal. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are 8 years or older. It's also possible to choose a higher deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverage (or Other than Collision)

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage caused by mother nature, theft, vandalism and other events. You first must pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be covered by your comprehensive coverage. The maximum payout a auto insurance company will pay at claim time is the cash value of the vehicle, so if the vehicle's value is low consider dropping full coverage.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

This coverage protects you and your vehicle from other drivers when they do not carry enough liability coverage. Due to the fact that many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. So UM/UIM coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Insurance for medical payments

Med pay and PIP coverage kick in for bills for things like ambulance fees, surgery, and doctor visits. They are utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if you do not have health coverage. PIP coverage is not available in all states but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.