Progressive Moves Resources into Place to Manage Claims from Katrina's One-Two Punch

PANAMA CITY, Fla.--Aug. 2, 20056, 2005--

As Katrina Shifts North, Nation's Third Largest Auto Insurance Group Staffs To Ensure Prompt Management of Claims; Offers Tips to Prepare Drivers Ahead of Second Landfall

After slamming Florida's southeast coast with heavy rains and 75 mph winds, Katrina has gained strength and is moving north - bringing heavy rain, strong winds and possible storm surge to residents in the Florida Panhandle, many of whom are still recovering from the season's first hurricane, Dennis. Progressive has reacted quickly to Katrina's new threat by deploying claims representatives from around the country to locations that are most likely to be affected by the storm.

"We've prepared for Katrina's one-two punch by deploying our claims reps in waves," said Scott Snapp, national catastrophe response director, Progressive. "The first wave will focus on southeast Florida and the second wave will be ready to move into the Panhandle immediately after the storm. We've also sent several catastrophe trailers to both areas so we can set up mobile claims management sites as needed to help ensure that our customers will not experience any delay in reporting or settling their claim."

Progressive encourages its customers to call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE (1-800-776-4737), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to report any claims incurred from Hurricane Katrina.

Like all hurricanes, Katrina poses a significant danger for inland flooding. According to the National Hurricane Center, more than half of all hurricane-related deaths in the past 30 years were due to inland flooding and one-quarter of those killed drowned inside their vehicle, or when attempting to abandon it.

Progressive reminds motorists that one way to reduce property damage is to be aware of the dangers posed by major storms. Progressive offers the following tips for protecting your car, recreational vehicle or boat as Katrina approaches:

-- Park your car or recreational vehicle on high ground, as close as possible to a sturdy building; don't leave the vehicle in a low-lying area prone to flooding. If you have to park it outdoors, park it away from trees, poles or other large objects that may fall onto it.

-- Boats should be moved inland if possible. Make sure you have everything you need to secure your boat, including extra lines, chafe protection, fenders, anchors, port plugs, duct tape and extra batteries.

The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, in business since 1937, ranks third in the nation for auto insurance based on premiums written and provides drivers with competitive rates and 24/7, in-person and online service. The products and services of the Progressive Direct Group of Insurance Companies are marketed directly to consumers by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE and online at progressivedirect.com through the Progressive Direct(SM) brand. The Drive Group of Progressive Insurance Companies offers insurance through more than 30,000 independent insurance agencies that market their products and services through the Drive(R) Insurance from Progressive brand. For more information, go to driveinsurance.com.

Scott Snapp, national catastrophe response director for Progressive, is available for interview.