Almost two-fifths (37%) of adults under 35 experiencing at least one accident in the past three years, with many struggling financially during unexpected disruptions, according to National Friendly.
A third (33%) of UK adults who had experienced an accident in the last three years described the incidents as ‘serious’.
The most common type of accident was a fall at home, accounting for 34% of cases.
National Friendly’s Accident Only Income Protection claim data showed that 34% of claimants were aged 35 or under.
Nearly one in four (23%) adults under 35 had suffered a sports-related injury, while 8% faced injuries from hazardous sports.
Younger individuals were also more likely to have accidents involving scooters (14% compared to a 7% average), push bikes (13% compared to 8%), or mobile phones (13% compared to 6%).
Additionally, 10% of under 35s experienced allergic reactions, and 9% were electrocuted.
The study highlighted that accidents contribute not only to physical injuries but also to financial strain.
The research also found that women are more likely to fall at home (38% compared to 28% of men) and outside the home (29% compared to 16% of men).
Conversely, men experience more accidents at work (14% compared to 11% of women) and in cars (13% compared to 8% of women).
National Friendly’s claims data indicated that 79% of claimants are male, with builders, delivery drivers, and HGV drivers being the top claimant occupations.
The five most common places for accidents were on public roads (13%), in the living room (9%), in public outdoor spaces (8%), in the kitchen (8%), and on stairs (7%).
Just over four in ten (43%) individuals who had an accident partly blamed themselves for the incident, while this perspective was lower among those under 35 (35%).
13% attributed their accident to another person, and 7% blamed an animal, rising to 12% among under 35s.
Brits also cited weather conditions (10%) and potholes (8%) as contributing factors to accidents.
Graham Singleton, CEO of National Friendly, said: “Our ‘Bruised Britain’ research highlights the growing risks of everyday accidents, particularly among younger generations who often juggle busy, active lifestyles.
“From sports injuries to accidents involving scooters and phones, the findings underscore the importance of having a safety net in place – both for health and finances.
“At National Friendly, our focus is on helping individuals and families secure their financial futures, no matter what life throws their way.
Singleton added: “Friendly Shield, the latest addition to our income protection product family, has been designed with simplicity, affordability, and accessibility in mind.
“It provides short-term benefits including up to three months of guaranteed income at a level chosen by the customer, fracture cover, and hospital cash in the event of an accident and sickness – all with no medical underwriting, ensuring support is available when it’s needed most.”
Ben Jones, head of product and partnerships at Active Quote, said: “As one of the UK’s leading income protection brokers, it’s truly eye-opening to see how everyday accidents can have such a profound impact on both people’s health and finances.
“National Friendly’s ‘Bruised Britain’ research highlights the pressing need for income protection, particularly for younger generations who often lack the financial safety net to recover from unexpected events.
Jones added: “From sports injuries to accidents involving scooters or mobile phones, it’s clear that the risks are diverse, and the financial strain can be overwhelming.
“Income protection is more important than ever to ensure individuals have the support they need to maintain their financial stability, no matter what life throws their way.”
