Today is Friday the 13th, the unluckiest day of the year according to most people.
While some will dismiss the superstitious day without a second thought, others will stay in bed paralyzed by fear, maintaining distance from the outside world. They avoid their daily tasks, and do not travel or conduct business. In the United States, this is the case for approximately 19 million people. These people suffer from friggatriskaidekaphobia, or Fear of Friday the 13th.
In the Gregorian calendar, Friday the 13th will always occur at least once a year and can occur up to three times in one calendar year.
The fear of the number 13 extends well beyond the days of the week. The number continues to have an unlucky association today. Many cities do not have a 13th street or avenue. High rise buildings do not have a 13th floor, hospitals do not have a room #13, and airports do not have a gate 13.
Numerous studies and extensive research explores the dangers of accidents on Friday the 13th. One may expect a rise in traffic accidents on such an unlucky day; however, studies show that more people stay home, resulting in fewer people on road, ultimately resulting in less accidents.
The Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute reports that somewhere around 800 and 900 million dollars are lost in the United States each year due to people staying at home or choosing not to travel. According to CNBC, Friday the 13th is also a quiet day for the stock market.
While the legitimacy of the superstitions surrounding Friday the 13th remain a mystery, that won’t stop millions of people from worrying.
There are various popular superstitions and myths surrounding today’s day, some of which are:
- If you break a mirror on Friday the 13th, you will have seven years of bad luck.
- If you walk under a ladder or if a black cat crosses your path on Friday the 13th, you will have bad luck.
- Ships that set sail on a Friday the 13th will have bad luck.
- If a funeral procession passes you on Friday the 13th, you will be the next to die.
- Do not start a trip on Friday the 13th or you will encounter misfortune.
- A child born on Friday the 13th will be unlucky for life.
Of course, again these are simply just myths and superstitions and it is up to you whether you believe in them or not. However, in the unfortunate event of an accident, on Friday the 13th or otherwise, please remember to give us a call. Our experienced injury attorneys in Phoenix can help you receive the proper compensation that you deserve. There are no fees until we win your case! Give us a call for a free consultation today: 602-265-5555