No fuel in the tank

Women are so used to skipping meals that they often embark upon long drives without eating first. 84 per cent of women confessed to having felt hungry whilst behind the wheel, even though 43 per cent said that it made them lose concentration and 40 per cent said that it increased tiredness.

Only five per cent of women, however, said that the reason for not eating was because they were dieting - 34 per cent of women said that it had slipped their mind until after they had embarked upon their trip and 28 per cent blamed a hectic lifestyle. Another 12 per cent of women said that they became uncomfortable if they drove when full up after a meal.

Around 56 per cent of female drivers, however, do indulge in snacking at the wheel - which can cause prosecution for careless driving - and two per cent have had a ‘near-miss’ or an accident directly because of unwrapping food, or eating with one hand leaving the other to control the vehicle.

Jacky Brown at Sheilas’ Wheels car insurance commented: "Today’s modern woman is constantly on the go and has an increasingly busy lifestyle, which is why we are appealing to all female motorists to take the time to properly plan their car journeys before leaving the house.

"Eat before you step into your car and try to stick to foods that will enhance your concentration and driving ability. Driving with a rumbling stomach or a whilst eating a sandwich or chocolate bar can only spell disaster."

Gloria Thomas, lifestyle coach and fitness expert, advises that motorists should eat foods that will provide energy and keep you fully alert, such as porridge, roasted vegetables, fresh salads and juices. Once the journey has begun, to avoid temptation, put all food in the boot of the car.