(Fri 13 Apr 07)

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.

Norwich Union 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 (13%) when compared to other days of the month. Conversely, all other 13ths had less than the average number of claims.

"Our analysis on dangerous days for driving has given some credence to people's superstitions regarding Friday the 13th," says Norwich Union's Nigel Bartram said. "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 – an 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.

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