Women drivers have become big business. This year will see more women than ever driving and buying cars. For the retail motor sector, they are one of the biggest growth segments. They are also one of the safest segments.

According to Diamond Insurance, statistically speaking, women are better drivers than men. This fact comes from the collection of claims data over decades by car insurance companies.

The RAC Motoring Report 2003 found:

In 1999/01 women accounted for 43 per cent of driving licence holders compared with 31 per cent in 1975/76

Licence holding has increased dramatically among women, rising 137 per cent since 1975/76, while the proportion of men holding licences has changed significantly less (37 per cent) over the same period

In 1999, 1 in 5 male drivers had points on their licences compared to 1 in 8 female drivers

Every year, women buy more cars, and according to Alan Pulham, franchised dealer director for the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI), car dealers take female motorists very seriously.

He said: "Women drivers are a growing market for the retail motor sector. This is reflected in the fact many of the higher profile new cars appearing on Britain's roads in 2003 are expected to be most popular with women."

Buying a new car should be enjoyable, but for some, buying a car can be an intimidating experience.

Mr Pulham said: "When a customer walks into a car showroom, it can be little overwhelming for them. However, the professionalism of the sales staff should be more than enough to boost their confidence."

Once customers are in the showroom, they should take their time, and ask themselves practical questions about what they want from their vehicle:

Will you be carrying goods or people or both?

Diesel, petrol, or alternative fuel?

Do you make long or short journeys?

Do you have children?

Automatic or manual?

Small engine for economy or larger engine for power?

Two, three, four or five door?

Saloon, coup, sports, estate, roadster, SUV (sports utility vehicle) or MPV (multi-purpose vehicle)?

Are you worried about depreciation values?

According to Pulham, accessorising is everything when it comes to cars.

He said: "Don't forget to look into the extras available with the vehicle you favour."

Popular choices include:

CD player

Air conditioning

Leather interior

Alloy wheels

Sunroof

To find your nearest RMI member, or to contact the RMI's National Conciliation Service visit www.rmif.co.uk, or call the RMI Consumer Motorline on 08457 58 53 50.