Erie, Pa. – Sept. 19, 2001 -- Consumers are very satisfied with the customer service, billing practices and claims handling they receive from Erie Insurance, according to J. D. Power and Associates’ 2001 National Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Study released yesterday.

For the second consecutive year, the multi-line property/casualty insurance company was rated #1 agency-represented company and second overall in customer satisfaction. The J. D. Power and Associates study is available on line at www.jdpa.com.

"ERIE prides itself on being a company that is above all in service," says Stephen A. Milne, Erie Insurance President and CEO, "and for the second year in a row, the J. D. Power and Associates study confirms that we are doing our job. I’m pleased with the survey results and recognize that customer satisfaction could not be achieved without the hard work and extra effort of our employees and agents. I congratulate all of them on this achievement."

Known for competitive rates and superior service, Erie Insurance Group is a leading property/casualty insurer in the United States. With more than 3.2 million policies in force, Erie Insurance Group includes seven companies operating in 11 states and the District of Columbia and is rated A++ (superior) by A.M. Best Company. Erie Indemnity Company (NASDAQ – ERIE) is the management company for Erie Insurance Group. Headquartered in Erie, Pa. since 1925, the ERIE provides auto, home, business and life insurance through more than 7,200 independent agents representing nearly 1,500 agencies. For more information and a listing of independent agents representing The ERIE in your community, visit the company’s Web site at http://www.erieinsurance.com