DES MOINES, Iowa, June 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Unitrin Direct Insurance Company, an auto insurer that offers a unique blend of customer-friendly service and affordable rates, has begun selling policies in Iowa, which is likely to mean significant savings for drivers statewide.

With a strong reputation for reliability and value in 23 U.S. states, Unitrin Direct uses an innovative direct business model to reduce overhead and pass savings on to consumers looking for affordable car insurance. Customers who switch to Unitrin Direct from another carrier save an average of $303.*

"We're using the latest technology to streamline the insurance process in a way that benefits our customers," said Scott Carter, Unitrin Direct president. "Not only do they save money, they also receive customer care that is faster and more efficient."

Unitrin Direct's most recent contribution to low rates and outstanding service earned it the prestigious 2007 IASA Technology Achievement Award, an honor given to companies in the insurance industry that use technological applications to solve business challenges. IASA cited Unitrin Direct's newly enhanced communication system, which electronically links departments such as customer service, claims and underwriting.

By staying on the cutting edge of technology, Unitrin Direct is able to offer big savings, provide information at the online "Help Center," process claims quickly, and deliver rate quotes to online car insurance shoppers in less than 10 minutes at http://www.UnitrinDirect.com. Customers who prefer to compare rates or get policy information by phone can call Unitrin Direct at (800) 642-5254 and speak to a licensed agent.

"We recognize that investing in technology plays an important role in allowing us to provide customers with the answers they need and the savings they want," said Bill Caldwell, vice president, product. "Unitrin Direct has a strong commitment to not only being a leading auto insurance provider but being a leader in the auto insurance industry."

Iowans looking for discounts will have plenty of options through Unitrin Direct. An instant $50 can be saved by using Esignature, a convenient service that lets customers sign policy documents online. And up to 17% more can be saved by customers who pay their policy in full. **

"We're excited to bring a new look to auto insurance in Iowa," said Thomas Cruse, Iowa product manager. "This is a great opportunity for drivers to take advantage of our many discounts and our low rates and pay less for their coverage than they ever have before."

About Unitrin Direct

Unitrin Direct is dedicated to providing its customers with outstanding service and quality coverage at competitive prices, making auto insurance simple by offering people the choices they want with the convenience they deserve. The Unitrin Direct insurance companies are subsidiaries of Unitrin, Inc. (NYSE: UTR - News) in Chicago, and part of the Unitrin family of companies that has over six million policyholders, $9 billion in assets and is rated "A" (excellent) by A.M. Best Company, a leading provider of financial information for the global insurance industry. The Unitrin Direct companies offer affordable automobile insurance in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin. To get a free auto insurance quote, log on to http://www.UnitrinDirect.com or call (800) 642- 5254.

    * Average savings based on new customers who reported a savings between
      March and June 2006.

    ** Discounts not available in all states.

Insurance is underwritten by Unitrin Direct Property & Casualty Company and Unitrin Direct Insurance Company.

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