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Washington's Internet Savvy Consumers Save on Auto Insurance

SEATTLE, May 5, 2006 -- When it comes to shopping for car insurance, Washington drivers have more options than ever, and with the recent opening of Unitrin Direct in the state, it just got easier. "It's fast and simple to get an online auto insurance quote at UnitrinDirect.com and our customers appreciate the convenience of our website," said Scott Carter, Unitrin Direct president. "We've always appealed to busy consumers because they can quote and purchase a policy online 24/7. Most of our new policyholders electronically sign their documents and many use our EasyPay service to automatically pay their premiums and renewals." Over two-thirds of Unitrin Direct new Washington policies are Internet-driven from quotes on their website, www.UnitrinDirect.com.

It comes as no surprise that a substantial portion of the Unitrin Direct Washington business is web-generated. Washington is one of the most "connected" states in the country, ranking 5th in households that have home Internet access, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. "Shopping online is convenient, and because we're a direct company, we offer highly competitive car insurance rates too," said Linsey Mansfield, Unitrin Direct Washington product manager. "New Unitrin Direct customers could experience savings of up to 20% when they switch, because the company streamlines its marketing efforts and passes the savings on to the consumer. We're excited to bring both savings and convenience to Washington residents."

A portion of Unitrin Direct's new business in Washington is generated from phone-center calls. "Of course, we offer the option of talking directly to an agent because some people prefer that level of service," added Carter. "Being a customer-focused auto insurance company, we're committed to offering both convenience and service to the consumer." Those who prefer to speak with a knowledgeable, licensed agent can call (800) 642-5254. The Unitrin Direct website has a click-to-call feature that gives online car insurance customers the option of having an agent call them directly.

About Unitrin Direct:

Unitrin Direct is dedicated to simplifying auto insurance with the right balance of competitive rates, stability and service. As a subsidiary of Unitrin, Inc. , in Chicago, Unitrin Direct is part of a Unitrin family of companies that has six million policyholders and $9 billion in assets. The Unitrin Property and Casualty Insurance Group is rated "A" (excellent) by A.M. Best Company, a leading provider of financial information for the global insurance industry.

Unitrin Direct launched in Washington on February 28, 2006. Currently, the company offers affordable automobile insurance in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.