Farmers Insurance Reduces Auto Rates in Oklahoma.

OKLAHOMA CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 1, 1998--Farmers Insurance announced Wednesday it has lowered comprehensive and collision rates for more than 200 auto makes and models in Oklahoma.

The rate decreases range between 5 and 13 percent and took effect beginning in March.

The 200 makes and models affected include autos in all categories. However, a higher percentage of trucks, family vehicles and sport utility vehicles are receiving reductions.

"Farmers is pleased to be able to offer these savings to our customers," said Ron Coble, state executive director. "We've experienced lower claims payments for vehicle damage and theft for each of these models for the past several years."

Collision payments have decreased due to level and sometimes lower costs for replacement parts from many auto manufacturers. In addition, repair costs tend to go up with inflation and recent low inflation has helped hold repair costs steady.

Nationally, auto thefts continue to rise. One vehicle is stolen every 20 seconds in the United States. To help control costs, Farmers offers discounts to drivers in many states who equip their cars with anti-theft devices and offers its customers a kit that marks auto parts with the vehicle's identification number. The labels help deter theft because they make the stolen parts less marketable.

Consumers can help control their auto insurance costs by choosing vehicles which are less costly to insure, getting credit for all applicable discounts and raising their deductibles.

To review the vehicles that qualify for reductions, as well as a list of 550 vehicles which receive lower-than-standard rates, contact your Farmers agent or visit the Farmers website at www.Farmersinsurance.com and click on the Farmers Services icon.

Farmers is Oklahoma's second-largest auto insurer, the nation's third-largest auto and home insurer, a leading commercial insurer, and a major life insurer.

CONTACT: Farmers Insurance

Ron Coble, 918/496-3244