Loss of 46 Lives in Motor Vehicle Accidents in 2003 Proof of Need for Greater Caution on California Roads This July 4

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif.--July 1, 2004--

Independence Day Holiday Traffic Fatalities in 2003 Prompt 21st Century Insurance and California Highway Patrol to Issue Driving Tips and Remind Californians to "Just Drive."

As Californians celebrated the Independence Day holiday weekend in 2003, there were 46 motor vehicle fatalities on California's roads, according to the California Highway Patrol. In the face of these tragic losses, 21st Century Insurance and the CHP urged motorists to "Just Drive," this holiday weekend.

In 2003, the July 4 holiday fell on a Friday, making it a three-day weekend holiday for most Californians. This year, July 4 falls on a Sunday evening so many people will have Monday off as well.

"The loss of life over holidays is tragic and we can reduce them with some common sense efforts," said Ed Combs, Senior Vice President of 21st Century Insurance. "That's why we encourage people to avoid distractions while driving, focus on safety, and to 'Just Drive' this Independence Day weekend."

CHP Officers report that there were a few key factors in the number of fatalities in 2003. They included alcohol consumption, lack of safety belt use, and increased traffic on the road.

"This is a maximum enforcement period for the CHP. We will be patrolling the highways in an effort to keep everyone safe over holiday weekend," said CHP Commissioner D.O. "Spike" Helmick. "Common sense and consideration for other motorists can go a long way toward saving lives," he added.

21st Century Insurance, in partnership with the California Highway Patrol launched the "Just Drive" Campaign in 2002 with billboards and public safety brochures to reduce traffic accidents and fatalities. This Independence Day Weekend, they are encouraging motorists to follow the following proven safe driving tactics:

-- Do not drink and drive. Forty-one percent of motor vehicle fatalities this July 4th weekend will be related to driving under the influence.

-- Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

-- Make sure you and all your adult passengers wear their safety belts on every trip no matter how short.

-- Assure that your children are secured properly in a child safety seat. For tips on child safety seat installation, go to www.21st.com for a free downloadable guide or contact your local CHP office to arrange an inspection.

-- Do not tailgate on the highways and monitor your speed.

-- Focus on the road in front of you. Try to avoid distracting behavior like eating, speaking on the phone, or turning around to the rear of the car while driving.

-- Drive cautiously and do not challenge aggressive drivers.

"Auto accidents are the leading cause of death among children and claim far too many adult lives as well. It is up to all of us to do what we can to make our roads as safe as possible and watch out for each other as we celebrate Independence Day," added Combs.

Founded in 1958, 21st Century Insurance Group provides personal automobile insurance to customers in California, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. 21st provides a superior combination of policy features and customer service at a competitive price. Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, customers have the option to purchase insurance, service their policy or report a claim over the phone directly through our centralized licensed insurance agents at 1-800-211-SAVE or through the Company's full-service Web site at www.21st.com. Service is also provided at the Company's neighborhood centers during normal business hours. 21st Century Insurance Company is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best and A+ by Standard & Poor's.