Britain’s Most Unfortunate Names Exposed: Is Yours Among Them?
Britain’s Unluckiest Names Revealed – Is Yours on the List?
By Xantha Leatham, Executive Science Editor
If you’ve ever felt accident-prone, it might not be a coincidence. A new analysis of personal injury claims reveals that people with certain names are statistically more likely to suffer slips, trips, falls, or workplace injuries. The study, based on data from Edwards Hoyle solicitors, highlights names like David and Joanne as the unluckiest for men and women, respectively.
The Unluckiest Names
Men:
- David (20% more likely)
- James (18%)
- Stephen (16%)
- Andrew (14%)
- Chris (12%)
Women:
- Joanne (18% more likely)
- Emma (16%)
- Clare (14%)
- Karen (12%)
- Lisa (10%)
[Image: David Beckham and David Attenborough, two famous Davids with the unluckiest male name.]
Davids, like David Beckham and David Attenborough, are 20% more prone to filing claims than the average person. For women, Joanne Froggatt (of Downton Abbey) and author J.K. Rowling (born Joanne) top the list, with a 1 in 20 annual chance of lodging a claim.
Why These Names?
Researchers suggest these names are common among older generations (1970s–80s), who may now hold riskier jobs or face age-related hazards. “While your name doesn’t doom you, some names appear more in accident data,” a spokesperson from PlayCasino.com noted.
[Image: James Norton and Stephen Fry, whose names also rank high for bad luck.]
Celebrities like James Norton and Stephen Fry should tread carefully—their names land in the top three for men. Similarly, Emma Watson and Clare Balding have accident-prone monikers.
A Lighthearted Warning
“If your name’s on the list, don’t panic! Just watch your step on stairs,” the spokesperson joked. Younger workers in physical roles—where names like Chris (e.g., Chris Martin) or Karen dominate—may also file more claims.
[Image: Clare Balding and Emma Watson, representing unlucky female names.]
So, next time you trip or spill coffee, blame your name… and maybe double-check your insurance!
Published: 08:57 BST, 26 July 2025 | Updated: 08:57 BST, 26 July 2025
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Britain’s UNLUCKIEST names, revealed – so, is yours on the list?
[Images and captions retained from original for reference.]
