CLEVELAND - Progressive Corp. is providing collision coverage for customers' dogs or cats at no additional premium cost. It will pay up to $500 if a customer's dog or cat is hurt or dies in a car accident.

"It's an unusual and interesting benefit," said Jean Salvatore, a senior vice president for the New York-based Insurance Information Institute. She was not aware of any other company offering a collision benefit for pets.

"Auto insurance is a very competitive market, and companies are always looking for ways to differentiate themselves. If this becomes popular, I'm sure others may look into it as well," Salvatore said.