Extra safe on the extra day, says Norwich Union

It’s a quirk of the Roman calendar but now it seems that Leap Year days are also a quirk of the claims calendar. Data from Norwich Union shows that 29th February is the safest day of the year in and around your home.

Analysis of ten years of claims data – including the two leap years in 2000 and 2004 – reveals that the extra day sees 20% fewer claims for theft, fire, water leaks and accidental damage compared to an average day.

Leap year days also see 20% less car accidents than normal. Making it the third safest day of the year on the roads, after Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Greg Gladwell, director of claims at Norwich Union, says there’s no apparent scientific reason for the figures:

“Perhaps the extra day means that people subconsciously change their routines or habits. The increasingly lighter mornings and evenings may mean people walk instead of drive to work, or go out for the day instead of pottering at home.

“Then again perhaps the odd male is in hiding in case he is put on the spot by his partner and so isn’t behind the wheel of his car or causing havoc in the kitchen!

“It’s also interesting to note that in some countries the Leap Year Day is considered bad luck and regarded with superstition, so perhaps everyone is extra cautious when they’re out and about.

“But it’s worth bearing in mind that all claims go up again on March 1 so if you want to keep claims-free, take a note of how you behave on February 29 and do the same for the rest of the year!”

Some Leap Year Insurance tips:
• If you are preparing to propose to your boyfriend, whoever buys the engagement ring should check it is included in your home contents policy and make sure you keep the receipt!

(and if he declines your proposal, Scottish tradition states that he should pay a fine either a kiss or a payment for a silk dress or pair of gloves)

• If you have a birthday on a Leap Year Day and are planning a house party ensure you move all valuables out of harms way and cover any expensive furnishings with old sheets or blankets. Check you have extra accidental damage cover for any red wine spills on the carpet!
• Remember to always tell your insurer your correct age. If you are a Leap Year Baby you may only have had 8 actual birthdays, but that could be good news for your motor insurance as we appreciate you are really 32!

Notes to Editors
Norwich Union is the UK’s largest general insurer with a market share of around 15%, with a focus on insurance for individuals and small businesses.

It is a leading provider of life, pensions and investment products and one of the largest Financial Adviser (FA) providers. FAs provide over 70% of the company's long-term savings business in the UK.

Norwich Union’s news releases and a selection of images are available from Aviva's internet press centre at www.aviva.com/media.