By Karla Sullivan
The rate of collision claims from ZIP codes around NFL stadiums is higher on days when the home team loses or ties than when it wins, a new study from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) shows.
HLDI analysts looked at collision claims for ZIP codes in which the 31 NFL stadiums are located, as well as adjacent ZIP codes. Claim frequency was higher on home game days, compared with other days. The effect was especially pronounced in the ZIP codes where the stadiums are located, though it was also present in the surrounding ZIP codes.
In HLDI’s claims data, the ZIP codes reflect the vehicle’s garaging location, and not the location of the crash. Thus, crashes involving the vehicles of people who live elsewhere and drove into the ZIP code for the game aren’t included. In addition, some crashes of vehicles garaged near the stadium could have taken place elsewhere. Nevertheless, the pattern of increased claim frequency on home game days is probably connected to higher traffic volumes around the stadiums on those days.
On days when the home team won, the rate of collision claims was 3.2 percent higher than on days without a home game. On days when the team lost or tied, the claim rate was 9.4 percent higher than on days without a home game. Only the increase for a loss or tie was statistically significant.
“The game day effect was much more pronounced at some stadiums than at others,” said HLDI Vice President Matt Moore. “This may point to differences in policing and traffic management strategies, which could present opportunities for improvement.”
If you are looking into auto insurance to protect your new prospective car before you travel to that next important game, remember insurance is based on a number of factors. If you want a car that will take a gang to the game, according to Consumer Reports, the Transit Connect should be on your radar screen for the least amount of cash.
But, auto insurance is not just about the car you purchase.
Most importantly, it is about your driving record, age, and where you live. Your driving record is the single most important factor. Things like ABS, airbags, traction control, and anti theft system also help you secure a better rate. Living in a safe neighborhood or having a garage to park in also better your odds of qualifying for auto insurance. Insurance companies will also factor in your credit rating when evaluating you for car insurance.
