You have lots of choices when looking for the best insurance on your vehicle. You can buy direct from a local agent or get quotes online to compare insurance costs of many different car insurance companies. Comparing car insurance through online rate quotes saves time, is easy to do and at the same time you might just save a little.

Using the web to shop for car insurance direct is challenging if you are a beginner to online quotes. But don't let that discourage you because comparing prices is actually very simple. When shopping for car insurance there are multiple ways to get quotes and find the best price. The best way to find the cheapest involves getting comparison quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by getting a quick quote here.

What factors determine your insurance rates?

Auto insurance rates for a 2012 can vary widely and are calculated by many factors. Taken into consideration are:

• High performance increases premiums
• Any accidents you may have
• Home and auto can earn discounts
• Use of your vehicle
• Young drivers cost more
• Being married may save money
• Special coverage such as replacement cost
• What you do for a living
• Insurance coverage level
• Whether you rent or own your home

A final factor that can impact is the model year. Used vehicles 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 more recent vehicles may have a trim level with safety features included like tire pressure monitors, autonomous braking, a collision avoidance system, and anti-lock brakes which can help offset higher rates.

Auto liability

This will cover damages or injuries you inflict on other people or property. Liability coverage pays for things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. It is cheap coverage so consider buying higher limits if possible.

Collision coverage protection

This coverage will pay to fix damage to your caused by collision with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. 2012 collision insurance is rather expensive coverage, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from vehicles that are older. Drivers also have the option to bump up the deductible in order to get cheaper .

Comprehensive auto coverage

Comprehensive insurance covers 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 maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value it's not worth carrying full coverage.

Coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers

This provides protection from other motorists when they are uninsured or don't have enough coverage. Because many people carry very low liability coverage limits, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. This is the reason having UM/UIM coverage is a good idea.

Medical payments and PIP coverage

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage kick in for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They can be used to fill the gap from your health insurance policy or if you are not covered by health insurance. PIP coverage is only offered in select states and may carry a deductible.