Published Monday, 14 May 2012
An increasing number of people are delaying filling up their cars with fuel. (© Getty)
On average, £32.78 is spent by motorists in the region compared to £24.56 in Yorkshire & Humberside which has the lowest spend.
However, 13% of motorists have been "driving on empty" in the last three months as fuel prices have soared.
Younger motorists are those mostly likely to drive with the petrol warning light flashing, the poll by breakdown service Green Flag has revealed.
A total of 25% of 18 to 34-year-olds have been driving on empty in recent weeks.
Four per cent of all motorists have completely run out of fuel in the last 12 months, the survey found.
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.
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."