Las Vegas NowMore Women Driving Drunk

More Women Driving Drunk

According to a several of studies and reports, it appears women are getting behind the wheel more frequently while intoxicated. But the idea they could be doing it with children in the car is also concerning.

Authorities admit it's men who are predominately those drunk behind the wheel, new data suggests woman are quickly gaining on their counterparts. According to a nationwide report, the number of woman arrested for driving under the influence has increased nearly 30-percent just over the past decade.

"The latest data from NHTSA does show a rise in female drivers driving under the influence of alcohol," said Trooper Chelita Rojas with the Nevada Highway Patrol.

A more recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration dealing with gender says Nevada is one of several states across the country to have seen an increase. What makes the increase so alarming to law enforcement is those same stats suggest the chances are higher for women to have children in the car while driving impaired, which could prove a costly mistake in addition fines.

"Some of the penalties they can be charged with is child endangerment if they are driving in the car while under the influence," said Trooper Rojas.

Police say regardless of the gender, no one should never drink and drive. But with the holiday season fast approaching, they also want people be even more mindful when children are involved. "Do not get in the car when you are under the influence of alcohol or meds when you have a child in the car. It's just not worth it in the long run," said Trooper Rojas.

Several more studies suggest as a result of the trend, fewer women are able to get out of traffic violations with only a warning.

Authorities say the reports didn't clarify a reason for uptick in female drunk driving, but did mention that the tough economy could play a role.