Progressive Announces Auto Insurance is Now Wireless
19 September 2000
Progressive Announces Auto Insurance is Now WirelessFuture of Auto Insurance is Available Today with Launch of New Wireless Technology MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio, Sept. 19 Not so long ago, auto insurance was only available between the hours of 9 to 5, and you had to travel somewhere to get it. Then it evolved into 24/7 accessibility through special 800 numbers. Then the Internet offered accessibility to information that consumers never had before through their PC. Today, The Progressive Corporation announced the latest online development-making auto insurance services and information from progressive.com available on Web-enabled cellular phones and hand-held devices from anywhere in the world, at any time. Auto insurance is now wireless. "This technology gives consumers even more control of their auto insurance policies and information," said Alan Bauer, Internet Business Leader, Progressive. "Wireless is the future of communication. It's a strategic imperative for Progressive to be the first to adopt and use technology that helps take the hassle out of auto insurance." The Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) technology that allows Web-enabled phone and hand-held device users to log on to progressive.com is the same technology that allows consumers to purchase their favorite book or check stock quotes instantly online. Early wireless functionality from progressive.com includes the ability to locate a nearby independent agent by entering a ZIP Code, contact the company to report a claim, or get an insurance quote and service an existing account. Future developments include being able to make payments, view information about accounts, coverages and vehicles, as well as check automobile-related recall information, and even be reminded when repairs are complete at an auto body shop. "With the application, and the future enhancements in wireless communications that allow wireless devices to know the user's location, the functionality opportunities are limited only by the imagination," said Bauer. "Making functionality local -- by helping people find a local independent agent, for example -- is a feature most wireless applications lack today." The announcement continues Progressive's commitment to technology and innovation in auto insurance. In 1990, the company introduced Immediate Response(R) claims service, an in-person, 24 x 7 service delivered by claim representatives using mobile technology. The technology allows reps to write estimates -- and checks -- at the accident scene. In 1994, the company became the only auto insurance company able to provide consumers with comparison rates of up to four of the leading companies. In 1995, the company introduced the first ever Web site for a major auto insurer. In 1997, the company became the first auto insurance company to provide coverage instantaneously online. And, in 1998, the company introduced a unique usage-based auto insurance product called Autograph. Using Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) and cellular technology, the company is able to offer customers more accurate auto insurance rates based primarily on how much, when and where the vehicle is driven.