LV= reports 30% increase in claims as restrictions ease

15 June 2021 | David Young

LV= General Insurance has reported a 30% increase in motor claims in the last month, compared to the beginning of 2021

With Covid restrictions being relaxed since mid-April, the number of people on the roads more regularly has increased exponentially, but so has the number of accidents, with a higher proportion taking place in car parks and on motorways than at any time since March 2020.

On Monday, 24th May, LV= GI had its highest day of claims for car accidents since the start of November last year, with drivers finding it challenging being on busier roads, making more challenging journeys on motorways and A-roads and undertaking more complex manoeuvres.

The number of accidents in car parks in May was at its highest since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. It's also nearly double the rate seen in January this year and higher than any month in 2019, apart from August.

It's been a similar challenge for drivers on motorways, with more claims for accidents during May than at any time since August 2020.

Martin Milliner, claims director at LV= General Insurance, commented: "In the last few weeks we've seen horrendous weather, more cars on the road and people getting used to driving again, and those three factors have clearly led to more accidents.

"Some people are getting back behind the wheel consistently for the first time in a while, so it's really important drivers take their time getting used to the busier roads and don't rush when parking or doing complex manoeuvres. It's also worth giving your car the once over if it's been sat on the street or drive for a period, just to make sure everything's working as it should do."