Erie, Pa. --- November 1, 1999 -- Erie Insurance Group has lowered rates for married drivers between the ages of 45 and 69 in ten jurisdictions. The rate decrease results in an overall 2.4 percent premium decrease totaling about $25 million.

The reduction, which went into effect Oct. 1, only applies to vehicles that have a "rated" or assigned driver who is married and between ages 45 and 69. Married drivers ages 45 to 49 and 65 to 69 who are the rated driver will receive a 7.5 percent decrease on select coverages. Married, rated drivers ages 50 to 64 will receive a 15 percent reduction on select coverages. Individual premiums will vary according to coverages and limits selected. Policyholders will realize the reduction as their policies renew throughout this year and next.

The rate reduction takes effect for ERIE auto policyholders in the District of Columbia and Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Indiana, Illinois, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Tennessee.

"This rate reduction passes along savings to a select group of drivers who have the most favorable experience," said Stephen A. Milne, President and Chief Executive Officer of Erie Insurance Group. "This reduction is in The ERIE's spirit of providing the best possible insurance at the lowest possible price. It is another example of how The ERIE remains the competition."

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. The ERIE provides a complete line of auto, home, business and life insurance through more than 1,250 independent insurance agencies.