Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who is the unluckiest of them all?

Avoid walking under ladders and cross your fingers tomorrow, as new research reveals that householders are more likely to smash a mirror on Friday 13th - and end up with another bout of bad luck.

The research, by insurer Churchill, analysed its home insurance data to compare accidental damage claims on Friday 13th February 2009 to the previous two Fridays. It shows that claims for accidental damage to mirrors and bathroom fittings, such as sinks and WCs, increased by a fifth (20 per cent) on Friday 13th - and could increase again this time round.

The research also reveals that accidental damage claims for cables and pipes increased by a quarter (25 per cent) on the unlucky day and claims for food damaged due to freezer breakdown increased by one hundred per cent.

Martin Scott, Head of Churchill Home Insurance, comments: "Householders should keep hold of their lucky charms this Friday 13th as our analysis shows that it really can be unlucky for some. However, having accidental damage cover on your home insurance can go some way to minimising the stress and financial burden of having an accident in the home."

Churchill Home Insurance offers accidental damage cover as an optional extra to the standard home insurance policy.

Accidental damage cover added to buildings insurance includes:

Accidental damage to underground drains, pipes and cables
Breakage to fixed glass and sanitary fittings

Accidental damage cover added to contents insurance includes:

Breakages to mirrors and glass
Protection for home entertainment equipment