You have lots of choices when shopping for insurance coverage for your vehicle. You can either buy through an insurance agent or go online to check prices from many different car insurance companies. Comparing car insurance through online rate quotes can be fast and easy and at the same time you may find lower rates.

If you've never shopped for car insurance online, it's easy to be confused by the hoards of online companies selling insurance. The are a couple different ways of comparing rates from different insurance companies. The best method to find competitive involves getting comparison quotes online. It is quite easy and can be accomplished by completing this short form.

Which factors influence your insurance rates?

Insurance premiums paid to insure a 2008 can vary widely depending on several factors. Taken into consideration are:

• Higher performance 2008 vehicles cost more
• Any accidents you may have
• Home and auto can earn discounts
• How you use your vehicle
• Your birth date
• Having a spouse can save money
• Special coverage such as replacement cost
• Your job
• The level of coverage
• Whether you rent or own your home

One important consideration that can impact your rates is the age of the vehicle. Used vehicles have a reduced actual cash value compared to new models so the costs to repair may result in lower rates. Conversely, newer vehicles have more advanced features such as an advanced theft deterrent system, blind-spot warning system, automatic crash notification, and tire pressure monitors which can give discounted rates.

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

Collision coverage - This coverage 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 lower value vehicles. It's also possible to increase the deductible to bring the cost down.

Comprehensive auto coverage - This pays to fix your vehicle from damage that is not covered by collision coverage. A deductible will apply then your comprehensive coverage will pay. The maximum payout you can receive from a comprehensive claim is the ACV or actual cash value, so if the vehicle's value is low it's probably time to drop comprehensive insurance.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage - This protects you and your vehicle from other drivers when they either are underinsured or have no liability coverage at all. Because many people 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 a good idea.

Medical payments and PIP coverage - Coverage for medical payments and/or PIP pay for expenses like doctor visits, EMT expenses, and X-ray expenses. They are 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 but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.