The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, the third largest car insurance group in the country, has teamed up with Metro City Group, owner of a 68-foot multimedia-equipped tractor-trailer, to provide drivers with the chance to test their skills in practical behind-the-wheel driving situations in a safe, virtual environment. With their eyes on the road and their hands securely placed at the 9 and 3 positions on the steering wheel, people who experience the Progressive Driving Skills Simulator will increase their knowledge of the rules of the road and be better equipped to handle any driving situation.
The driving course curriculum includes real-life situations - like driving in high traffic, congested areas, through foggy or rainy weather or simply passing and yielding to other drivers - and measures drivers' responses, reaction times, crash reduction techniques and general driving knowledge.
"The interactive experience of the Progressive Driving Skills Simulator is truly unique and innovative," said Mike Storbeck, Progressive Product Manager. "It gives people the chance to "Ëœtest drive' their skills in all types of driving situations, which we hope will prepare them for driving on the real - not virtual - road."
"Our objective has always been to redefine driver's education and provide a practical training program that gives people a chance to test, and practice, their skills in a safe, simulated environment," said Tim Albright, president of Metro City Group, owner of The Simulator. "We are looking forward to working with Progressive, and are sure that, together, we can make our roads safer and more enjoyable for everyone."
Over the next several months, the Progressive Driving Skills Simulator will travel to many local events in the Western U.S. including Motor Trend Auto Shows, state fairs and other automotive industry-related events. Upcoming events include:
| Date | Â | Event | Â | Location |
| Oct. 4-7, 2007 | Orange County Auto Show | Anaheim, Calif. | ||
| Oct. 12-14, 2007 | Arizona State Fair | Phoenix, Ariz. | ||
| Oct. 16-17, 2007 | Driving Skills for Life | Inglewood, Calif. | ||
| Nov. 2-4, 2007 | Central California Auto Show | Fresno, Calif. |
Additional events are currently being added to the calendar. Please visit www.streetsimulator.com for a full schedule of events.
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 products and rates 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.
About The Simulator
The Simulator continues on its mission; to redefine driver education and provide a proven training program for teens that save lives. Through a comprehensive evaluation and computerized driving simulators we can now gauge the drivers' responses, ability to follow directions, crash reduction techniques, and general knowledge of rules of the road. Based in Laguna Niguel, California, the Simulator travels across the country to help families learn about driving safety, education, and the many resources that are available to them to help keep their families safe. Our services are provided to parents, teens, and all attendees free of charge. To learn more about our programs or to find the next event near you visit www.streetsimulator.com.
