WITH the holiday season upon us 'speedy' male and 'safe' female drivers are on a collision course to in-car conflict according to a poll of 2000 motorists!

The survey, carried out by Jamjar cars, showed that the 'battle of the sexes' is fought fiercest in the front seat, with 79% of women and 85% of men thinking that their driving skills are better than their partner's. That's just a matter of opinion.

For men, the key characteristic of a good driver is confidence, closely followed by speed. In contrast, women rated safety, courtesy and patience as essential qualities in a good driver.

From these findings, four key phrases have been identified for both sexes to avoid whilst their partners are behind the wheel.

Men should steer clear of the following put-downs if they want a happy holiday journey:

"You could have got a bus through!"

"You're allowed to put it into fourth gear!"

"You're being overtaken by a cyclist!"

"You're totally lost!"

Women, on the other hand, should never utter the following unless they want a fight:

"Do you know what the speed limit is?"

"You're too close!"

"Calm down!"

"Have you ever tried saying thank you?

Good advice. It's better to try and keep schtum and have a harmonious journey -- difficult though it may be.

I must admit I'm a "you're too close" critic and operate invisible brakes to get my message through.

I think it's worked because generally I'm asked to take the wheel.