No one's ever happy with car insurance but the law requires it, so everyone has to have it. Good thing too, given the demolition-derby driving style that now typifies most of the country's freeways and country lanes.

Unfortunately, insurance regulations are heavily weighted in favor of the companies. Take the underinsured motorist (UIM) laws, for example. They are written so that in many cases consumers can be left with little or no protection even when they have adequate insurance of their own. Rachel's case is a good example.

One thing to keep in mind: companies charge based on how likely they think you are to file a claim. Young males pay more than older males, those with high-powered sports cars pay more than those with Honda Civics and so on. Lately, insurers have also been looking at consumers' credit reports (story), which many find a bit odd.

The secret to having a policy with good coverage and low rates? Be an older person with a clean driving record. Drive a modest, easily-repaired, seldom-stolen vehicle. Live in an area with low accident and crime rates. Other than that, no problem.

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