Technology has come far in recent years, and it continues to improve. Google's latest upgrade is a prime example of making something that's good even better. The internet giant's handy navigational tool, Google Maps, not only provides accurate step-by-step directions, but it offers estimated trip durations as well. The service used to provide travel times for both ideal driving conditions and traffic-heavy trips, but the traffic estimates were proving to be inaccurate, so Google removed the service, according to Engadget.

Now, Google has reworked the algorithm to provide more accurate, up-to-date traffic predictions using current conditions as well as historical traffic data to calculate how long a trip will take. Drivers who rely on Android phones for navigation can take advantage of these trip estimates on the road, especially when they enable the "MyLocation" feature to make the predictions more accurate, according to the Google Maps and Earth team's blog.

Those who choose to research directions before they leave the house may find it will be faster to take public transportation than drive, if the option is available. This can be a great way to conserve gas and save money. Even if you drive a fuel-efficient vehicle, hopping on a bus or a train and leaving the car at home takes far less gas than driving – even if you have to drive to a train station first.

With the average cost for a gallon of gas nearing $4 per gallon, according to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report, drivers are looking for ways to save at the pump. Those in the market for their next car can look for cars with decent fuel economy, and there are many used vehicles that will help drivers save at the pump. New Jersey State Auto Auction has a wide variety of affordable used vehicles, so drivers are sure to find the perfect ride to suit their needs.