Research just out reveals that more than three quarters (84 per cent) of female motorists drive whilst hungry, despite the fact that nearly half (43 per cent) admit that it causes them to lose concentration and for 40 per cent, it increases their tiredness on the road.

56 per cent of women drivers admit that they break the law by snacking behind the wheel in order to save time

The research, conducted by female-friendly car insurer Sheilas' Wheels, reveals the top reasons women are not eating before getting behind the wheel: 1. Slips their mind until their journey has started (34 per cent)
2. Hectic lifestyle (28 per cent)
3. Don't like driving when full (12 per cent)
4. Dieting (5 per cent)

But it's not only the female motorists who skip meals and drive hungry that are putting themselves and their passengers in danger. For 56 per cent of women drivers admit that they break the law by snacking behind the wheel in order to save time.

Consequently, it is estimated that more than 370,000 female motorists (2 per cent) have experienced an accident or 'near miss' when snacking, as they frequently take their hands off the wheel to unwrap or eat food. Almost half of women (46 per cent) admit to unwrapping sweets while they are driving.

Please do not tell me this means the end to our secret stash of coke and chocolate we have hidden in the car. Another avenue of pleasure denied for us girls!

FemaleFirst