Buying car insurance online can be fast and easy and at the same time you might just save a little. The most important part is to take the time to get rates from all providers in order to accurately compare every option.

If you're new to shopping for car insurance online, it's easy to be confused by the hoards of online companies vying for your business. When shopping for car insurance there are multiple ways of comparing rates from different insurance companies. The quickest method to find the cheapest is to get quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by getting a quick quote here.

Which factors influence your insurance rates?

Auto insurance rates paid to insure a 2011 can vary widely depending on several factors. Taken into consideration are:

• A clean driving record keeps rates low
• Credit rating
• Where you live
• Annual mileage can affect rates
• Male rates may be higher
• The deductible you choose
• Your vehicle's safety rating
• What you do for a living
• The level of coverage
• 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 the costs to repair may result in lower rates. Conversely, newer vehicles may have a trim level with safety features such as sideview assist mirrors, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning system, and tire pressure monitors which can help offset higher rates.

Liability coverage

This coverage can cover damages or injuries you inflict on a person or their property in an accident. Liability coverage pays for things such as emergency aid, pain and suffering, and medical services. Coverage is generally pretty cheap so consider buying higher limits if possible.

Collision coverage

Collision insurance covers damage to your from colliding with an object or car. You will need to pay your deductible then your collision coverage will kick in. This coverage can be expensive, so you might think about dropping it from vehicles that are older. Drivers also have the option to bump up the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive coverage

This covers damage that is not covered by collision coverage. A deductible will apply 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 ACV or actual cash value, so if your deductible is as high as the vehicle's value it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Uninsured Motorist or Underinsured Motorist insurance

This provides protection from other drivers when they either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Since many drivers carry very low liability coverage limits, it doesn't take a major accident to exceed their coverage limits. So UM/UIM coverage is very important.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP pay for expenses (i.e. doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses). They can be used to cover expenses not covered by your health insurance policy or if you do not have health coverage. Personal Injury Protection is not an option in every state and may carry a deductible.