Buying car insurance from online companies saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you will probably save money. The key to finding lower rates is to take the time to get rates from all companies so you can get the lowest rate quotes.

Shopping online for car insurance is challenging if you are a beginner to online quotes. But don't be discouraged because there is an easy way to compare rates. To find the best car insurance prices, there are several ways to compare rate quotes from car insurance companies in your area. By far the easiest way to find competitive is to get quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by completing this short form.

What factors determine your insurance rates?

Insurance rates on a 2006 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Credit rating
• Male drivers pay higher rates
• Low deductibles cost more
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your profession
• The amount of protection requested
• Whether you rent or own your home

One last important factor that helps determine the rate you pay on your is the year of manufacture. Older models have a reduced actual cash value so the cost to replace them may end up costing you less. But new models may have options including active head restraints, adaptive headlights, a backup camera, and tire pressure monitors which can give discounted rates.

Liability coverage

This provides protection from 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. It is cheap coverage so purchase higher limits if possible.

Collision insurance

Collision insurance pays to fix your vehicle from damage resulting from a collision with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage for your 2006 can be pricey, 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 save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive coverage

This coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You first must pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be covered by your comprehensive coverage. The maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if the vehicle's value is low consider removing comprehensive coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)

This protects you and your vehicle when the "other guys" either have no liability insurance or not enough. 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.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for expenses for things like 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. PIP coverage is not universally available but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.