by Jade Balle

Created on: November 05, 2008   Last Updated: January 13, 2009

With an economy on its last leg, folks are rightfully searching for a way - any way - to reduce their monthly bills. It's only natural that we take a look at one of the only staples of our lifestyles that is competitive on price: car insurance.

However, when you're shopping for car insurance, you don't only want to focus on rates. The coverage being offered and the level of service you will receive in the unfortunate event of a vehicle accident is also important. After all, what good is it to save money on your car insurance premium if after a claim the only replacement vehicle you'll be able to afford is a bicycle? Those streamers sure are pretty! But they will not help propel you to 55 miles an hour to make it to work on time.

Did you know that:

1) Some insurance companies will offer you a discount and additional benefits if you served your country?

2) When you combine your auto insurance with other insurance products, such as your homeowner's or another vehicle, you are afforded additional overall savings?

3) When you order your insurance online, you not only save but also take advantage of comparison shopping?

4) Six-month auto insurance rates varied significantly from company to company, from an average low of $481 to an average high of $586 across the country between 1999 to 2004 (Progressive Insurance Study)

If you never took a moment to check out different auto insurance companies and their programs, you may be missing out on an array of benefits and savings. Not to mention that in this Internet age, it has become increasingly easy to get quotes on car insurance and do thorough research on both local and national insurance companies from the comfort of your home computer. Here are a few suggestions for how to shop for car insurance like a true pro.

Consult Friends

One of the best ways to shop for car insurance is to ask your friends for their own personal quotes. Fortunately, auto insurance is one of those expenditures that folks are generally happy to divulge information about.

If you've got a friend in the same boat as yourself, who lives in the same area and has an identical driving record, you may be surprised to learn that he or she is paying much less for auto insurance for the same coverage that you're getting quotes for.

The next logical question is obviously who your friend holds his or her insurance with! Calling in for a quote and signing up is a no-brainer if it turns out that you can get the same type of insurance for less. If you're not getting the

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