Hailstorm Causes Vehicle Damage in Bismarck; Progressive Offers Six Simple Steps to Getting Back on the Road.

BISMARCK, N.D. -- With hail as large as golf balls and winds of 60 miles per hour, yesterday's hailstorm in Bismarck caused widespread damage to vehicles, including dents and broken windshields. If your vehicle was damaged, there are six steps you should take to restore it to its pre-accident condition, according to The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies (NYSE:PGR).

"We know how important it is to get you and your vehicle back on the road quickly - that's what our 24/7, in-person claims service is all about. Understanding your repair options can help you save time and money," said Scott Snapp, catastrophe response director, Progressive.

Progressive has already deployed members of its Catastrophe Response Team to Bismarck to handle the increased number of claims expected following the storm and will continue to monitor the need to allocate additional resources to ensure that customers are properly serviced in a timely manner. The company has set up drive-in claims centers in Bismarck and is encouraging Progressive customers who suffered hail damage to call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE (1-800-776-4737) as soon as possible.

If your vehicle is damaged in a hailstorm, Progressive recommends that you take the following steps:

1.  Call your insurance company immediately to report the damage.

   2.  Discuss your repair with your insurance company and your local
       body shop. Hail damage to sheet metal may need to be repaired
       in a conventional manner. However, trained technicians may
       recommend paintless dent removal (PDR), which involves using
       specially-molded metal tools on the underside of a damaged part
       that won't disturb the factory finish. This method is often
       used by manufacturers and dealers to repair new vehicles and
       will not invalidate paint warranties. PDR cannot be performed
       if the dents are too large, if there are too many dents or if
       the paint finish is damaged. Prior body damage that required
       plastic fillers or bonding may also make PDR difficult. Your
       insurance company will be able to determine the severity of
       your damage and consult with you and the body shop on which
       repair method makes the most sense for your vehicle.

   3.  Find a reputable facility. If you choose a repair shop on your
       own,