Copyright © 2009, American Safety Council, Inc. (Sponsoring Agency 029). *Successful completion of 320-minute Internet course by principal operator of insured vehicle provides 3-year, 10% reduction in base rate of motorist’s current car liability, no-fault & collision premiums.**Point reduction benefits can be applied once within 18 months and reduce as many as 4 points from record. Reduced points remain on the driving record but are not counted by NYS DMV against the license. Point reduction does not remove, delete, subtract or erase violations, convictions or points, or prevent or cancel a mandatory revocation or suspension for violations such as DWI, DWAI or three speeding violations within 18 months.

Complete Auto Repair (CAR) customer service provides stress-free repairs

MELVILLE  , a division of OneBeacon Insurance Group, providing auto insurance to both voluntary and Assigned Risk drivers, today announced a brand new service for its customers aptly named AutoOne CAR Network.

The AutoOne CAR (Complete Auto Repair) Network is a stress- and hassle-free customer service that provides repair center referrals, at the customer’s option, to a network of facilities selected by AutoOne Insurance. It’s convenient, paperless and available to anyone who reports a claim to AutoOne’s claims hotline.

To ensure quality customer service, repair centers selected for the AutoOne CAR Network must adhere to stringent guidelines, and have up-to-date repair equipment and certified associates on staff. They also must guarantee the repairs for as long as the insured or claimant owns the vehicle.

AutoOne puts every participating repair facility through a rigorous initial inspection, and conducts regular reinspections. Adhering to program requirements is a prerequisite for a repair facility’s continued association with the AutoOne CAR Network. Customers opting for referrals may have any number of services provided including: appraisal service, rental car arrangements and complete repair of the vehicle to its pre-accident state, as well as other services.

“AutoOne takes pride in being a company that is responsive to its clients’ needs and is constantly striving to provide enhanced, convenient customer services,” said Carey Benson, AutoOne’s President and CEO. “With the addition of the AutoOne CAR Network, we continue to grow our customer services with quality assistance for our insureds when they need their insurance company the most.”

The AutoOne CAR Network is currently available for New York State residents. Expansion of the network to New Jersey residents is planned for the second half of 2006.
About AutoOne Insurance Group
AutoOne Insurance is a division of the OneBeacon Insurance Group, which is rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best. AutoOne Insurance is based in Melville, New York and is an approved provider of Assigned Risk services for automobile insurance companies in New York, New Jersey, Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Vermont, Maine and Washington D.C. AutoOne also offers voluntary automobile products such as Private Passenger, Physical Damage and Take-out programs to qualified New York drivers.

OneBeacon Insurance Group is wholly owned by White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. of Hamilton, Bermuda. White Mountains’ principal businesses are conducted through its subsidiaries and affiliates in the business of property-casualty insurance and reinsurance. The company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Bermuda Stock Exchange under the symbol “WTM.”

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
The press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or referenced in this release which address activities, events or developments which we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. The words “will,” “believe,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” “predict” and similar expressions are also intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to White Mountains’:

• growth in book value per share or return on equity;
• business strategy;
• financial and operating targets or plans;
• incurred losses and the adequacy of its loss and loss adjustment expense reserves and related reinsurance;
• projections of revenues, income (or loss), earnings (or loss) per share, dividends, market share or other financial forecasts;
• expansion and growth of our business and operations; and
• future capital expenditures.

These statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by White Mountains in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will conform to our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, including:

• the risks associated with Item 1A of White Mountains’ 2005 Annual Report on Form 10-K;
• claims arising from catastrophic events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods or terrorist attacks;
• the continued availability of capital and financing;
• general economic, market or business conditions;
• business opportunities (or lack thereof) that may be presented to it and pursued;
• competitive forces, including the conduct of other property and casualty insurers and reinsurers;
• changes in domestic or foreign laws or regulations, or their interpretation, applicable to White Mountains, its competitors or its clients;
• an economic downturn or other economic conditions adversely affecting its financial position;
• recorded loss reserves subsequently proving to have been inadequate;
• other factors, most of which are beyond White Mountains’ control.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated by White Mountains will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, White Mountains or its business or operations. White Mountains assumes no obligation to update publicly any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Whatev you drive, you have a lot riding on those wheels. It’s your family and your peace of mind. Choosing the right auto insurance can help protect you from the risks associated with the road.

A Travelers auto policy can cover:

• Bodily injury liability
• Property damage liability
• Injuries caused by uninsured/underinsured motorists

• Medical payments
• Comprehensive damage from events like fire and theft
• Collisions with other vehicles or objects

You can also add our extended transportation expense coverage, repair or replacement collision coverage, towing and labor charges coverage, auto death indemnity, auto loan and lease protection and more. Learn more about Auto coverage.

Savings for safety features and more

Along with our competitive insurance rates, you can get over 15 money-saving discounts and advantages based on factors like your car’s safety features, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes and certain anti-theft devices, and even your school report card. Hybrid cars may qualify for further reductions.

You could also save up to 15% on your Auto insurance when you buy other Travelers insurance policies, like Homeowners Insurance, Umbrella Insurance and Boat & Yacht Insurance. ^*

There when you need us

At Travelers, we know how important it is for you to resolve an issue as quickly as possible. That’s why our fast, efficient claim services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Plus, in the event of a catastrophic loss or natural disaster, our industry-first emergency response vans are able to arrive onsite to help your community get back on its feet.

We also have a guaranteed auto repair program that extends throughout the United States, including a network of world-class auto glass repair shops that can service your car in your very own driveway.

Why are teen rates usually so high?

Teens tend to have more accidents because they have less experience as drivers. So, even if you have a clean record, your rates reflect the overall teen track record. Here are some things you should know about your rate. Sure — it might not help much now, but it could help you get a lower rate in the future.

Things you can do now:

You could save money by staying on your parents’ policy.

• Your parents are eligible for a lot of price breaks that you probably can’t get, like discounts for owning a home, having several vehicles, being married, etc.

You might be eligible for discounts from other companies.

• Other insurance companies offer discounts to teens, for good grades or taking a driving class. Although that might not mean that their rates are lower than ours, you should shop around to see what discounts are available and if you qualify.

Things you can do later:

You can expect your rate to go down with time.

• At age 19, if you have a Progressive rate, it could drop by as much as 35 percent. At age 21, it could drop an additional 25 percent. The main message: Keep shopping as you get older to see if you get a lower rate.

You can do things now that will help lower your rate later.

• Age is only one factor we consider — a clean driving record, good credit history, and prior insurance could help you keep your rates lower in the future.

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What is Auto Insurance?

Auto insurancehelps you to protect you and your family against financial loss in the event of an accident or other cause of loss. It covers the injuries and damages caused by an accident and for which you are legally responsible. It may also cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged or stolen.

What if I don’t have car insurance?

In most states, you’re required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance (or post a bond) and also provide proof of insurance before you can license your vehicle or renew your driver’s license. If you are caught driving without car insurance, you may have to pay a large fine, have your driver’s license suspended, and/or have your car impounded. Contact your local Farmers agent to find out what the specific requirements are in your state for car insurance quotes.

How much Auto insurance coverage should I purchase?

The required minimum coverage may not be enough to pay for all the damages that result from an accident, and the legally responsible driver will have to pay the additional expenses out of pocket. You may want to speak with an agent to discuss the best auto insurance coverage for your needs and budget.

How can I keep my auto premiums down?

Generally, the longer you drive without major citations or accidents, the lower your premium will be. You may also qualify for discounts based on safety features on your vehicle. Farmers also offers an Annual Policy which keeps your rates stable for the entire year. We calculate your insurance costs for the year, and you don’t have to worry about changes for a whole 12 months. Furthermore, with the FarmersFlex Program you can lock in your base rates, and qualify for accident forgiveness for up to 3 years. Also, if you insure additional cars or your home with Farmers you can save on all your premiums. For further information, contact your Farmers agent.

Why should I insure my car with Farmers?

With Farmers, you get a local professional agent, who can offer you insurance coverage to meet your auto, home, life and small business insurance needs, simplifying your life and enabling you to save with multi-line discounts. Your Farmers agentcan talk to you about which discounts you may be eligible for. Farmers is committed to serving the needs of its customers, with unparalleled customer and claims service.

Driving in Adverse Conditions
Whether you’re a novice or a skilled driver, there are going to be times when adverse weather will test your driving abilities. The best defense you have is the ability to react calmly and correctly to the conditions.

Before you head out, watch your local weather forecast. If there is a possibility of rain, snow, strong winds or other potentially dangerous weather on the way, you may want to consider alternative travel times, routes and destinations. But you can’t always predict the weather, and there is always the possibility you could get stuck driving in adverse conditions. Whether you’re driving in slick conditions or avoiding potholes or hazards in the road, here are a few tips that could help you react in ways that will keep you safe.

When Surfaces are Slick
When roads become slippery, you have to react differently than you would during ideal driving conditions. Whether it’s rainy, snowy or icy, there are some simple steps you can take to help keep yourself safe in slick conditions:

• Prepare your Vehicle. Tires should be properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth to help ensure traction on slick roads. In the winter, check your fluids, particularly for washer fluid and anti-freeze, to make sure they are at adequate levels. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with jumper cables, flares, a flashlight and some warm clothing and blankets in case you get stuck. Additionally, you should make sure you completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice before you start driving. This increases your safety by making sure you have unobstructed views out all windows and prevents snow and ice from flying off your car and posing hazards to others on the road.
• Reduce your Speed. Most slick condition crashes are caused by excessive speeds for the road and weather conditions. Speed Limits are set for optimal, dry driving conditions. If conditions are adverse, you may need to travel at a speed well below the posted limit.
• Leave Extra Space. In perfect driving conditions, you should leave at least one car length between vehicles for every ten miles per hour that you are driving. In inclement weather, stopping distances are increased, and you need to adjust how close you follow other vehicles.
• Dial 911 in Emergencies. If your vehicle becomes disabled or if you encounter an emergency, you should dial 911 and report your location and the nature of the emergency. Make sure you always know your location, including the name of the road you’re on or the mile marker if you’re on a highway.

Driving Through Puddles
Be very cautious when driving through puddles, the water may be hiding a pothole. Never drive through rushing water, as it may be a lot deeper than you expected. And in flood conditions, the water can rise more quickly than you may be able to react.

Driving in Fog
When you’re driving in foggy conditions, it’s just as important for other cars to see you as it is for you to see them and the road. Always use your low beams, not just the fog or parking lights. This helps other drivers see your vehicle. In extremely thick fog, use the lines on the pavement and roadway reflectors as your guide and listen for other vehicles you may not be able to see.

Avoiding Potholes
It’s important to have a pothole plan, or at least an awareness that these road craters can appear with little warning. While sometimes there’s nothing you can do to avoid driving over a pothole, there are steps you can take to help increase your awareness of these hazards in the road and avoid damage to your automobile.

• Watch the Traffic Around You. If you notice that everyone in front of you is making an unexpected detour, they may be swerving to avoid a pothole in the road.
• Make Mental Notes. Pay close attention to your daily commute or other frequently traveled routes and make note of the potholes. Knowing the route you drive will help you avoid potholes instead of absentmindedly running over them.
• Pay Attention to your Tires. Keeping your tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommendation will help keep your wheels and tires from being damaged from pothole impacts.
• Check with your Department of Transportation. Some state Web sites have a “report-a-pothole” feature. This can help you identify possible problem roads and gives you the opportunity to report potholes you discover during your commute.

If conditions prevent you from taking safe evasive actions and running over the crater is unavoidable, there are several things you can do minimize the possibility of damage. If  you can’t completely avoid a pothole, don’t swerve at the last minute. Swerving can cause the front wheel and tire to impact the edge of the pothole at an odd angle, which may do more damage than hitting it squarely. Do decrease your speed before run over a pothole, but don’t brake while going over a pothole. Heavy braking will compress the front suspension of your vehicle and may force the tire and wheel down into the pothole, rather than gliding over the hole.

If, after running over a pothole, you feel a sudden vibration or disturbance, or you suspect your tire or vehicle has been damaged, immediately reduce your speed. Pull off the road when it is safe to do so and inspect your tires. If a tire is under-inflated or damaged, replace it with your spare tire and wheel. If you cannot determine the cause of the problem, have the vehicle towed to the nearest repair facility or dealer and have the vehicle inspected.

Print a copy of our Auto Accident Checklist to keep in your glove box.

Earn a Snapshot Discount^SM for Driving Safely

Get an insurance rate that’s based on how you drive, with Progressive’s Snapshot program. You can earn a discount by sending us a “snapshot” of your safe driving habits.

Snapshot Savings

You can save money with Snapshot by driving fewer miles, in safer ways and during safer times of the day.

How Snapshot Works

Ask your local insurance agent if Snapshot is right for you.
Sign up when you buy your Progressive policy.

Get the device in the mail and plug it in.
Your Snapshot device will come with easy instructions. Just plug the device into your car and drive to share information about how you drive, how much you drive, and when you drive with Progressive.

Log in and see your potential savings.
Log in to your policy on ProgressiveAgent.com to view your driving data and projected discount. After 30 days, your initial Snapshot savings – which can be anywhere from zero to 30 percent – will be applied to your policy.

After six months, send your device back and enjoy your discount – for a long time!
After 6 months, send the Snapshot device back, and we’ll set your discount, which you’ll keep for future renewals. That discount will remain for as long as you are insured with Progressive.

See how easy Snapshot is!

Earn a Snapshot Discount^SM for Driving Safely

Get an insurance rate that’s based on how you drive, with Progressive’s Snapshot program. You can earn a discount by sending us a “snapshot” of your safe driving habits.

Snapshot Savings

You can save money with Snapshot by driving fewer miles, in safer ways and during safer times of the day.

How Snapshot Works

Ask your local insurance agent if Snapshot is right for you.
Sign up when you buy your Progressive policy.

Get the device in the mail and plug it in.
Your Snapshot device will come with easy instructions. Just plug the device into your car and drive to share information about how you drive, how much you drive, and when you drive with Progressive.

Log in and see your potential savings.
Log in to your policy on ProgressiveAgent.com to view your driving data and projected discount. After 30 days, your initial Snapshot savings – which can be anywhere from zero to 30 percent – will be applied to your policy.

After six months, send your device back and enjoy your discount – for a long time!
After 6 months, send the Snapshot device back, and we’ll set your discount, which you’ll keep for future renewals. That discount will remain for as long as you are insured with Progressive.

See how easy Snapshot is!

We will not share your data with third parties without your consent, unless required by law.

Snapshot Availability

Snapshot is currently available through independent agents in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington DC, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Savings vary by state. For more information, talk to your independent insurance agent.