More accidents occur on Friday 13th, study claims

April 13 2007 12:11 AM

IT's Friday the 13th and the chances of an accident are high, new research claims.

The date and day represent the unluckiest combination for motorists, with more accidents occurring on this day than any other. Insurance company Norwich Union analysed claims data over a five-year period.

It found that on the six Friday the 13ths during that period, the number of claims was significantly higher (a spooky 13pc) compared with other days.

Yet all the other 13ths had fewer than the average number of claims.

A spokesman for the company appeared to find there was a basis in the trend from people's heightened awareness.

He added: "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."

The safest day to drive was the 26th, on which there was an 8pc decrease in the number of claims against an average day.