Drink driving is seen by many as an issue among male drivers, but a new survey has shown that the number of female drink drivers has increased dramatically in the last 15 years.

The poll, by car insurer Direct Line and transport organisation the Rees Jeffreys Road Fund, found that female drivers accounted for 17 per cent of those convicted of drink-driving offences in 2012. In 1998 this figure was nine per cent.

Experts believe that many women take risks with alcohol because they think they are fit to drive. It is thought that this, combined with increased alcohol consumption among middle class women, is behind the increase.

The study also found that 17 per cent of women drivers thought they had driven whilst over the limit in the last 12 months.

It is believed that women are often the 'designated driver' at parties, meaning they tend to take more risks than men on such occasions.

Many of our breakdown cover customers may be surprised to discover that almost all respondents thought they could handle more alcohol than the average woman, while 60 per cent were unaware of the legal limits.

17 per cent said they felt that they had no other choice but to drive whilst under the influence, frequently because of "family emergencies". 31 per cent believed it was acceptable to drink-drive if they drove carefully. 59 per cent drove after drinking alcohol because they felt "okay" to drive.

Steve Maddock, managing director of claims at Direct Line Group, said: "Part of the problem is a lack of awareness and confusion as to what constitutes drink-driving and also the misguided belief that in some circumstances, driving while over the limit can be justified."