Business
The 'Quiet Week' Myth: Why the Last Week of December Can Be Riskier Than It Looks
The days between Christmas and New Year's often feel calm — fewer emails, lighter traffic and a pause before the year ahead. But according to Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY), that so-called "quiet week" can bring a unique set of risks for homeowners and drivers.
About this update from Mercury General Corporation
[{"type":"text","content":"What Homeowners and Drivers Should Know About Risk During the Final Days of the Year","length":84,"tagName":"p","attribs":{}},{"type":"text","content":"LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The days between Christmas and New Year's often feel calm — fewer emails, lighter traffic and a pause before the year ahead. But according to Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY), that so-called "quiet week" can bring a unique set of risks for homeowners and drivers.","length":327,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":""When routines change, risk patterns change," said Larry Anderson, Director, Underwriting Operations at Mercury Insurance. "The last week of December is a time when homes are left empty, travel increases and small issues can go unnoticed — all of which can lead to more severe losses."","length":305,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Why the 'Quiet Week' Can Create Bigger Problems","length":55,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"From an underwriting perspective, Mercury Insurance sees several factors that make the final days of the year deceptively risky:","length":128,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Unoccupied Homes Mean Delayed DiscoveryExtended travel or overnight stays with friends and family can leave homes unattended. Plumbing leaks, electrical issues or break-ins may go unnoticed for days, allowing damage to worsen before anyone is aware there's a problem.","length":272,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Seasonal Weather + Fewer Daily Check-InsCold temperatures, rain and wind can stress roofs, pipes and exterior fixtures. Without someone home to catch an issue early, even minor problems can escalate quickly.","length":208,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"More Driving — Often on Unfamiliar RoadsEnd-of-year trips frequently involve rental cars, unfamiliar routes and late-night driving. While traffic may be lighter, these factors can increase the likelihood of accidents.","length":218,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"New Items Bring New ExposureHigh-value gifts and new electronics often enter the home at the end of December. Without proper setup or safety precautions, these items can increase the potential for damage or liability.","length":218,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Smart Ways to Reduce Risk Before the Year En...