Erie, Pa. -- December 22, 1999 -- Erie Insurance was one of only two companies recently commended by the New York State Insurance Department for having no consumer complaints filed against it regarding private passenger automobile insurance.

The insurance department released its annual ranking of consumer complaints filed against private passenger automobile insurers doing business in the state. According to a statement from Insurance Commissioner Neil Levin, there are nearly 200 auto insurers operating in New York, and consumers should use this list as a way of measuring policyholder satisfaction. Insurance Department spokesman Wayne Cotter said only companies with more than $10 million in premiums are included in the rankings.

"We pride ourselves on being above all in service and are honored that our New York policyholders indicate that we live up to that promise, " said Erie Insurance President and CEO Stephen Milne.

Erie Insurance has been writing private passenger auto products in New York since January 1995. The Rochester Branch Office serves 65 ERIE agents writing in western and central New York. Erie Insurance plans to continue expanding its New York operations in the coming years.

Known for competitive rates and superior service since 1925, Erie Insurance Group is the 16th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on surplus and has over 2.6 million policyholders. Group member Erie Insurance Exchange is the 13th largest auto insurer in the country. Erie Indemnity company (NASDAQ – ERIE) is the management company for Erie Insurance Group, which includes seven companies operating in 10 states and the District of Columbia.