FRIDAY THE 13TH - A MENACE FOR MOTORISTS
13 April 2007 - Norwich Union

It’s the day all those superstitious souls amongst us take that extra bit of care on the roads – or so you’d think!

According to claims data from Norwich Union, Friday the 13th is the unluckiest day for motorists with more accidents occurring on this day than any other.

The UK’s largest insurer researched claims over a five-year period*, during which time there were six Friday the 13ths, and discovered that the number of claims on these days was significantly higher (a spooky 13%) when compared to other days of the month. Conversely, all other “13ths” had less than the average number of claims.

Nigel Bartram, motor underwriting manager, Norwich Union, said, “Our analysis on dangerous days for driving has given some credence to people’s superstitions regarding Friday the 13th. Though it’s difficult to say for certain why this is, one reason could be that people alter their driving behaviour in response to a perceived “unlucky” day. In reality, changing driving behaviour in reaction to a perceived risk – as opposed to a real risk, such as snow or ice – does not necessarily translate to safer driving. Therefore, by altering driving behaviour to change their “luck”, motorists may create a decidedly unlucky self-fulfilling prophecy.”

In terms of overall claims value – a strong indicator of the seriousness of an accident – Friday the 13th was second behind the first day of the month. The “safest” day to drive, meanwhile, was the 26th, which saw an 8% decrease in the number of claims against an “average” day.

www.norwichunion.com

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