Shoppers beware: Co-op Insurance urges drivers to take care on Black Friday as day sees 42% more motor accidents than an average day

20 November 2023

• The peak Christmas shopping day signals the start of the motor claims season
• Co-op Insurance data shows that the last Friday in November has on average 23% more motor accidents than other Fridays in November, and 42% more than an average day
• Data shows claims on a Friday are 57% higher than on a Sunday

Shoppers Beware! Co-op Insurance is urging drivers to take extra precautions on the roads this Black Friday (November 24th), with claims data revealing the last Friday in November sees 42% more motor vehicle accident and collision claims than an average day.

Data from Co-op Insurance suggests that darker nights, the deterioration of weather conditions, and increase in road works in November contribute to a high number of crashes and road incidents. At the peak of the holiday shopping season, adverse unpredictable weather, and the added stress of getting ready for the festive celebrations can catch drivers off guard, leading to a spike in motor claims.

Within the last 3 years, claims on a Friday were on average 57% higher than on a Sunday, the safest day to travel. Furthermore, Black Friday usually occurs on the last Friday of November - leading to a direct spike in Motor Accident & Collision claims compared to any other Friday in November, at an average of 23% more.

Paul Evans, Head of Motor at Co-op Insurance, said: “Our claims data shows over recent years Black Friday is a dangerous day to be on the road.

"This is when we see the most claims for incidents, as evenings become darker, there’s more adverse weather conditions and roads are generally busier as people commence their Christmas shopping.

“We’re urging drivers to take sensible precautions by allowing extra time for your journey and checking car lights and tyres before setting off on journeys. This is especially important at a time when there is an increased risk on the roads.”

For more information about Co-op Insurance please visit https://www.coop.co.uk/insurance

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

*Using Co-op data Motor Collisions/Accidents in the 3 years to end of 2022

For more information, please contact: pressoffice@coop.co.uk

About Co-op:

Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates over 2,400 food stores, over 800 funeral homes and provides products to over 5,000 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited.

Employing almost 60,000 people, the Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11billion and is a recognised leader for its social goals and community-led programmes. The Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and stand up for the things they believe in.