As many as 13% of motorists have been "driving on empty" in the last three months as fuel prices have soared, a survey showed.

It is younger motorists who are the ones mostly driving with the petrol warning light flashing, the poll by breakdown service Green Flag revealed.

A total of 25% of 18 to 34-year-olds have been driving on empty in recent weeks, while 4% of all motorists have completely run out of fuel in the last 12 months, according to the survey.

Based on responses from 2,014 adults, the poll also showed that 13% have set out on a journey feeling nervous about running out of fuel.

The survey also indicated that Britons are spending an average of £27.20 a week on fuel, with expenditure the highest in Northern Ireland (£32.78) and the lowest in Yorkshire & Humberside (£24.56).

The two areas where motorists are driving on empty the most are North East England and Wales, followed by the East Midlands and the West Midlands.

Green Flag spokeswoman Miranda Schunke said; "These 'vapour trailers' running on empty pose a serious threat to themselves and other motorists. Running out of fuel on a busy road increases the risk of being hit by other motorists and those who have run dry awaiting assistance by the side of the road are also leaving themselves unnecessarily vulnerable.

"Rising fuel prices and the general costs of living are contributing to motorists understandably changing their driving habits but we urge everyone to think about their petrol consumption for their own safety and other road users."