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Progressive Reduces Auto Insurance Rates in Oregon by Four Percent

25 March 1999

Progressive Reduces Auto Insurance Rates in Oregon by Four Percent

    TIGARD, Ore., March 24 -- Progressive , one of the
largest auto insurers in Oregon and in the nation, is reducing its rates in
Oregon, John Vrijmoet, Progressive's Oregon General Manager, announced.  The
decrease, representing an average of four percent, is effective March 23, 1999
and marks the third consecutive rate reduction in the state since April 1998,
totaling an average of 12 percent.
    Vrijmoet credits the decrease in large part to lower claims costs and the
company's Immediate Response(R) claims service.  "We continuously review our
rates to be sure they accurately reflect our costs of doing business and
adjust them as necessary," said Vrijmoet.  "We've been able to lower our
costs, so we're able to pass these savings on to consumers."
    Immediate Response(R) claims service is Progressive's commitment to be
there when policyholders need help most -- when they need to make a claim.
In the event of an accident, policyholders are encouraged to call Progressive
as soon as possible, so that claim representatives can begin the claims
investigation and settlement process as quickly as possible.  In Oregon,
Progressive claim representatives can even be dispatched to the accident
scene, arriving in one of 16 boldly-marked, specially outfitted Immediate
Response Vehicles to assist policyholders. Claim representatives can even
issue a check to the policyholder on the spot.  No other major auto insurance
company handles claims this way.
    "Settling claims fast helps people get back on the road quickly, while
reducing our expenses associated with rental cars and storage fees.  Our
claims service is not only convenient, it helps us offer lower auto insurance
rates to all of our customers," said Vrijmoet.
    In Oregon, Progressive meets the auto insurance needs of more than
48,000 drivers throughout the state.  Progressive insurance is available to
Oregon residents through more than 700 Authorized Independent Insurance
Agents, by calling 1 800 AUTO PRO(R), or on the Internet, at progressive.com.
    Through the Internet, over the phone, or through more than
30,000 Independent Insurance Agents across the United States and in Canada,
Progressive Auto Insurance provides all drivers with competitive rates and
innovative services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  In business since
1937, the company is committed to making auto insurance easy and hassle free,
while providing consumers with choices in the way they shop for, buy, and own
their insurance.  Progressive companies writing auto insurance consistently
receive high ratings from A.M. Best Company, an independent firm that rates
the financial strength and performance of auto insurers, assuring consumers of
the relative strength and stability of the insurer.  More information about
Progressive can be found on the company's Web site, located at
progressive.com.