The insurer’s prediction follows last year’s claims trends, where drivers flooded back to the roads after lockdown restrictions eased
Insurer NFU Mutual predicts a minimum 18% increase in road traffic accident (RTA) claims from next week, as the UK enters the next phase of Boris Johnson’s road map out of lockdown.
The potential spike in claims is expected to occur as self-contained holiday accommodation lets, non-essential retail, personal care, outdoor hospitality and indoor leisure venues are scheduled to open to the public on Monday 12 April.
Previous claims data from NFU Mutual showed that over the late May bank holiday last year, shortly after lockdown restrictions were initially eased on 11 May, claims for car accidents rose by 22%.
RTA claims also increased by 12% over the Christmas period, compared with previous weeks.
Back on the road
NFU Mutual motor insurance specialist Jade Devlin said: “While uncertainty remains on whether European holidays are on the cards, our research shows that millions will be taking to the UK’s roads for holidays from next week, when lockdown eases.”
Of the 2,003 drivers surveyed by NFU Mutual in March 2021, 37% said they are planning to drive to another location in the UK for a holiday once the government allows people to do so - this equates to more than 12 million drivers taking to the roads.
One in four drivers have also admitted they are nervous about making long journeys once lockdown restrictions are lifted.
Devlin continued: “Where easing has happened in 2020, we’ve received sharp surges in reported car accidents, with roads getting busier very quickly and drivers taking their first long distance drives for a while.
”We’re sadly expecting the same from 12 April, when many venues and holiday lets start opening up, so would urge drivers to take care on the roads.”
To help prevent vehicle accidents, the insurance company is providing 1,000 free ’driving confidence’ sessions to its car and van insurance customers.
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