On the surface, it is easy to compare auto insurance quotes. You fill out a short form, and in exchange we give you offers with attractively low premiums. But what if you have two offers that are very similar? How do you choose?

At CheapAutosInsurance.com we want you to leave our site knowing that you have the best insurance deal available, but we work with many companies and all have their own niches. Here are some pointers to help your comparison:

• It's All About Risk. Just as a mortgage company sees you as a credit score and a debt-to-income ratio, an insurance company sees you not as a person, but as a collection of risk factors. The premium you pay is directly related to these risk factors, and they include not just your driving record, but what you drive, what your job is, and where you live. Be honest when answering questions, and be certain you answer the same thing to all companies, when trying to compare.
• Peer Behind the Price. The premium is the bottom line for your pocket book, but looking beyond it may help you choose the company. Consider researching each insurer's financial stability as well as how they perform when claims are filed. After all, the least expensive insurance in the world does you no good if your company doesn't pay claims in a timely manner.
• Demand those Discounts. Make sure that all your comparisons take relevant discounts into consideration. Americans lose almost $300 billion a year in discounts they never ask about. If you know you qualify for a discount, bring it up!
• Move Beyond Minimums. While most states only require minimum amounts of coverage for you to be in compliance, those minimums are not generally enough to cover a serious accident, and if you own a home or a business, they certainly won't protect those assets. Make sure your comparison includes comprehensive coverage as well as minimum requirements.

As with anything you buy, different insurance companies can have different prices for the same products, so when you begin to compare auto insurance quotes, make a list of any questions that you have. As you read through company overviews, check to see if those questions are answered. If not, try to get the answers you want before you commit.

Remember, part of getting the best deal on insurance means that you get the best fit for you. At CheapAutosInsurance.com we want to help you do that.