Car insurer says Black Friday sees a 48% spike in crash claims

Motorists hunting for a Black Friday deal today are being warned to take extra precautions as there is a higher risk of being involved in an accident, an insurer says.

The number of crash-related claims that drivers file on the last Friday in November is 48 percent higher than on an average day, says Co-op Insurance.

It believes this is related to a number of factors, including deteriorating weather conditions and more people on the move to stock up on Christmas presents.

“At the height of the Christmas shopping season, adverse unpredictable weather conditions and the added stress of getting ready for the holiday celebrations can overwhelm motorists, leading to a spike in auto claims,” ​​it said.

Our own data shows that over the past five years, claims on Friday have averaged 61 percent higher than Sunday, which is statistically the safest day to travel.

Since Black Friday typically occurs on the last Friday in November, it has been associated with an immediate spike in claims compared to other Fridays during the month, averaging six percent more, the provider said.

Paul Evans, head of motor at Co-op Insurance, said: ‘Our claims data shows that Black Friday has been a dangerous day to be on the road in recent years.

“This is when we see the most incident claims as evenings get darker, there are more adverse weather conditions and roads are generally busier as people do their Christmas shopping.”

Mr Evans added: ‘We are urging drivers to take sensible precautions by allowing extra time for your journey and checking car lights and tires before you travel.

“This is especially important at a time when there is an increased risk on the road.”