Buying car insurance through online providers is simple to do and at the same time you may find lower rates. The critical component is to take the time to get rates from as many companies as possible so you can get the best prices.

Shopping online for car insurance is challenging if you have never used online quotes. Don't let that stop you because we're going to show you how. The are a couple different ways of comparing rates from car insurance companies in your area. One of the best ways to find competitive is to get quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by completing this short form.

What influences your insurance rates?

Insurance premiums for your 2011 can vary widely subject to many criteria. Taken into consideration are:

• Traffic citations increase rates
• Credit rating
• Male rates may be higher
• Low deductibles cost more
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• Your job
• The amount of protection requested
• Whether you rent or own your home

One important consideration that helps determine your rates is the age of the vehicle. Older models have a reduced actual cash value compared to new models so the payout to repair can decrease annual premiums. But newer vehicles have more advanced features including traction control, pedestrian detection, autonomous braking, and adaptive headlights which can give discounted rates.

Liability auto insurance - 2011 liability coverage can cover damages or injuries you inflict on other's property or people in an accident. Liability coverage pays for things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. This coverage is usually fairly inexpensive so buy higher limits if possible.

Collision coverages - Collision insurance covers damage to your resulting from colliding with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible and the rest of the damage will be paid by collision coverage. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so consider removing coverage from lower value vehicles. It's also possible to increase the deductible to save money on collision insurance.

Comprehensive (Other than Collision) - Comprehensive insurance coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage that is not covered by collision coverage. You need to pay your deductible first then your comprehensive coverage will pay. The maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the market value of your vehicle, so if the vehicle's value is low it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Uninsured and underinsured 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.

Medical expense insurance - Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP reimburse you for expenses like doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if there is no health insurance coverage. Personal injury protection coverage is not an option in every state but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.