Affordable Coverage that Protects Small Businesses from Employee Lawsuits Now Available from Progressive’s Independent Agents

Business Editors

MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 27, 2008--Small businesses can be devastated by the high costs associated with employment-related lawsuits. Even a frivolous claim can cost a business tens of thousands of dollars. Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI), now available from Progressive through its independent agents, offers affordable protection against such lawsuits.

EPLI provides protection for an employer and its employees against claims made by current, former or potential employees for discrimination, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and other employment-related allegations. It covers attorney fees, damages, settlements and other costs associated with employment lawsuits.

Progressive's EPLI program includes services from the nation's largest labor and employment law firm, Littler Mendelson, P.C., that are designed to help employers reduce their exposure to legal risk and costly litigation. This includes confidential consultation with a Littler Mendelson attorney, model employee handbooks and employment law reference manuals. Legally compliant employment applications, offer letters, performance evaluations and termination checklists are also included.

“Some small businesses go without EPLI to save money, but one lawsuit can end up costing them much more than the coverage itself,” said Joe Aber of Progressive’s Professional Liability Group. “We offer a product that is affordable for small businesses, with rates as low as $500 a year.”

The plan for the new coverage, now available in Florida, Georgia, Ohio and Pennsylvania, is to have it available in about 15 states by year-end 2008. For more information on Progressive’s EPLI product, or to find a local independent agent near you, go to http://www.progressiveagent.com or call (866) 483-EPLI (3754).

About Progressive

The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, in business since 1937, is the country’s third largest auto insurance group and largest seller of motorcycle and personal watercraft policies based on premiums written, and is a market leader in commercial auto insurance.

Progressive is committed to becoming consumers’ #1 choice for auto insurance by providing competitive rates and products that meet drivers’ needs throughout their lifetimes, superior online and in-person customer service, and best-in-class, 24-hour claims service, including its concierge level of claims service available at service centers located in major metropolitan areas throughout the United States.

Progressive companies offer consumers choices in how to shop for, buy and manage their auto insurance policies. Progressive offers its products, including personal and commercial auto, motorcycle, boat and recreational vehicle insurance, through more than 30,000 independent insurance agencies throughout the U.S. and online and by phone directly from the Company. Private passenger auto products and prices are different when purchased directly from Progressive or through independent agencies. To find an agent or to get a quote, go to www.progressive.com.

The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, are publicly traded at (NYSE:PGR).

Joe Aber is available for interview.