The car insurance policy has a lot of legal language that most of us do not begin to understand. The essential parts of the car policy are found in the declarations page that you receive when your policy renews. Car insurers are always competing for each other's policyholders. Every car insurance company uses actuaries and underwriters to help determine the rates.

Rating Territory – Whether you like it or not, your neighbors and friends in your community help determine the rates in your area. These areas are called rating territories by the insurance companies. If there are high losses and frequency in your area then your rates are going to be higher. The opposite is also true.

Liability Insurance – Liability insurance protects you when you are liable in an automobile accident. This is valuable protection for you because this is the portion of the possible that insures you against the highest risk and financial loss. Liability claims because of death and injury are by far the largest. Don't cut yourself short in this area.

Physical Damage Insurance – This portion of the car insurance policy pertains to your vehicles. It is a good idea to self-insure in this area by purchasing this coverage with high deductibles. Low deductibles no longer warrant the high premiums for the protection afforded. High deductibles will save you thousands of dollars over the life time of a policy.

Car Insurance Discounts – There a number of discounts in car insurance, Vehicles with air bags, seat belts, anti-lock brakes, and anti-theft devices all have discounts. Senior drivers can receive retirement discounts. Young drivers with driver training education receive discounts. Some companies give good student discounts for the young driver with a 3.0 grade point average.

It's also important to have certain information available when shopping for car insurance. The vehicle identification number for all vehicles, the driver's license number for all drivers, and your current insurance information will make your shopping easier.