Safety is a top priority for most drivers, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is making it easier for consumers to find out about recalls, safety ratings and the latest news from the government agency with its new iOS app. The app gives users access to a mobile version of the website SaferCar.gov, the NHTSA's go-to guide for all things related to automotive safety.

"Safety is our highest priority, and we're always working to find new and better ways for people to access SaferCar, one of the most popular programs on our website," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "This app takes advantage of the latest technology to ensure that consumers have the real-time information they need to buy safe, drive safe and stay safe."

Drivers who are researching their next new or used cars can browse NHTSA crash test ratings and even compare models right on their iPhones or iPads. They can also look up recalls and complaints about certain models, and users have the option to save particular vehicles on the app. If a recall or complaint comes up for that model, the user will be alerted right away, so drivers don't have to worry about missing important information about their cars.

The NHTSA's new app also allows users to get help with installing child safety seats. The app, which will soon be available for the Android platform as well, is designed to help consumers stay on top of the latest safety information so they can stay safe on the roads and protect their loved ones as well.

Drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can use the app to their advantage when they're looking to purchase their next ride. Once they've found a model they like, they can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which carries a wide selection of makes and models.

It seems like the snow just won't stop falling, but drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can still get their vehicles ready for warmer weather. Some things, such as giving the car a good wash, can be done at home, but others like fluid changes and replacing worn parts will require the assistance of a professional, such as the mechanics at New Jersey Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center.

Do-it-yourself
Washing the car will remove all the road salt and grime that have built up over winter, which can protect your vehicle's exterior and prevent rust and chipped paint. Make sure to pay attention to the wheels and the underside of the car as well. You should also inspect the windshield wipers for signs of wear or damage – these are easy and inexpensive to replace. New wipers will ensure you have the best visibility when the "April showers" begin. Take a look under the hood to see if there is any visible damage. You might notice tears or rips in belts or hoses that could cause bigger problems if not addressed soon.

Seek professional help
For everything from oil changes to replacing worn hoses, belts and other parts, you might want to visit an auto show like NJ Auto's Total Car Care Center. Unless you know your way around the engine, it's best to leave major fixes to mechanics who have the proper tools to get the job done. They can spot problems you might not even notice and help get your car in working shape in time for warm weather. Plus, when you address small issues, you can prevent major damage that would likely be much more expensive. 

April 15 is just around the corner, which means you'll soon be filing your taxes if you haven't already done so. If you're expecting a big check from the government this year, you might want to put it toward the purchase of your next vehicle. You may even be able to cover the entire purchase price with your return if you're looking at used cars, trucks or SUVs when you trade in your current vehicle as well. This can save you the hassle of securing financing, but even if you need a car loan, your return can serve as a down payment. Finding the right car for the right price can be a challenge with so many options, but here are three vehicles that cost less than $10,000 that could suit your needs.

2005 Toyota Corolla
Compact cars are growing more and more popular, as they are especially fuel efficient and can help you save money at the pump. The 2005 Toyota Corolla could be a good choice. It gets an estimated 35 miles per gallon on the highway, which is comparable to many new models. Kelley Blue Book prices this small sedan at around $8,800, making it a good deal for a great value.

2006 Honda Civic
Another small car that has stood the test of time is the Honda Civic. According to Consumer Reports, the 2006 model has an average retail price of about $9,300, and the car gets up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway. Honda also built the '06 Civic to be roomy for driver and passengers, making it a viable option for taller motorists.

2004 Subaru Forester
If you're looking for a bit of extra cargo space, you may want to test drive the 2004 Subaru Forester, which can be found for around $8,200. The sporty wagon is especially ideal for drivers in the New York/New Jersey area, as every trim level comes standard with all-wheel drive.

There are plenty other affordable options waiting for car shoppers at New Jersey State Auto Auction, and every model on the four-acre lot is CARFAX certified.

Cellular One, a major wireless provider in the U.S., recently announced it would be working with country music singer Rachel Holder to help spread awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. The new campaign, No Texting & Driving, will work to teach people about safe driving through video and audio public service announcements.

"I am very excited to help Cellular One with this important reminder message, especially to those in my age group," Rachel Holder was quoted as saying in the press release. "Through campaigns such as these, Cellular One proves how much they care about people in their communities. Wireless phones have revolutionized our everyday lives, we want to encourage people to use them wisely. I am proud to team up with Cellular One in support of their safe driving campaign."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 18 percent of injury-related accidents in 2010 were affected by distracted driving, which includes texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, eating, drinking and using navigation systems. For example, when a driver takes his or her eyes off the road to read a text, they are looking away for approximately 4.6 seconds. At 55 miles per hour, the car can cross the length of a football field without the driver's eyes on the road.

Drivers can find vehicles that have cellphone connectivity options like Bluetooth, so they can safely access certain features of their phones like navigation apps without having to take their hands off the wheel or look away from the road. This technology can be found in new and used cars, giving motorists options no matter what their budgets may be. Drivers looking for used cars can head to NJ State Auto Auction, which has a number of makes and models that are all CARFAX certified.

If you're thinking of getting rid of your vehicle so you can buy your next used car, you have plenty of options that go beyond selling or trading in your current ride. A popular choice is to donate your car to charity, and you now have a new choice of charities. The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) recently announced it is partnering with Vehicles for Charity to accept donations in the form of cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, motorcycles and any other recreational vehicles you might have lying around.

"We are pleased to announce this new vehicle donation program. By donating your vehicle to the National Federation of the Blind, you are helping to improve the lives of blind people across the country," said Dr. Marc Maurer, president of the NFB. "Your donation will go toward our work to increase the number of blind children learning Braille, to advocate for blind and other disabled persons to receive a fair working wage, and to ensure a brighter future for all blind Americans."

This can be an especially appealing way to unload your vehicle if it is very old or not in great condition, as you won't likely get a lot of money for it by selling it or trading it in. By donating the car, you'll be helping out a good cause and saving some money when it comes time to file next year's taxes.

Whether you have a clunker that has been rusting in your garage or you're getting ready to purchase your next car, you can donate your current vehicle as a tax-deductible way to give back. When it comes time to pick out your next car, truck or SUV, you can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a wide selection of makes and models that are all CARFAX certified, so you can feel good about getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride after doing something charitable with your former vehicle.

Teens are at higher risk of getting into motor vehicle accidents than any other demographic of drivers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motorists between the ages of 16 and 19 are three times more likely to get into crashes than older drivers. Car wrecks are the leading cause of death among teenagers, and recent reports have shown the rate of accidents is on the rise for this age group.

Recent research from the Ford's Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program found that parents play an integral role in how their teens operate vehicles. Not only can parents teach their youngsters the rules of the road, but they should also set a good example by always obeying the laws and observing safe driving practices when behind the wheel.

"By setting a good example behind the wheel, parents can increase the chances their children will adopt safe driving practices," said Jim Vella, president of Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. "While state laws and educational programs are critical, ultimately, parents are the most critical component to keep their teen drivers safe."

DSFL recommends parents talk to their teens openly about driving and dangerous behaviors like drinking and driving. They should also spend time practicing with their kids during the learning process. It would be a good idea to make it clear that unsafe practices, whether not using seatbelts or texting while driving, will result in punishment. Parents should also abstain from unsafe practices, such as speeding, engaging in distracted behaviors like eating and drinking behind the wheel and operating a cellphone​ to enusre their kids follow the same rules.

It's also important to make sure kids are driving safe vehicles, and parents can take their teen drivers to New Jersey State Auto Auction to check out the wide selection of used cars, trucks and SUVs. Every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, giving parents additional assurance that their youngsters will be driving reliable vehicles.

With high gas prices and a growing concern for the environment, more drivers than ever before are placing emphasis on fuel economy when they buy new and used cars. The need for even better fuel efficiency is highlighted by the most recent Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards that require all automakers to have a fleetwide economy of 54.4 miles per gallon by 2025. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released a report that indicates the industry is moving in the right direction.

"Today's report shows that we are making strides toward saving families money at the pump reducing greenhouse gas emissions and cleaning up the air we breathe," said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and Radiation. "The historic steps taken by the Obama administration to improve fuel economy and reduce our dependence on foreign oil are accelerating this process, will spur economic growth and will create high-quality domestic jobs in cutting edge industries across America."

From 2007 to 2012, the EPA found overall fuel economy values improved by 16 percent, marking the highest average fuel economy of 23.8 mpg. The report also showed that carbon dioxide emissions have dropped 13 percent over the same five-year period. 

Things are expected to continue improving, as the Obama administration established the National Clean Car Program, which includes the new CAFE standards as well as efforts to continue cutting back greenhouse gas emissions and reducing dependence on gasoline.

Those who are in the market for vehicles, whether new or pre-owned, have plenty of options if they want something that will get the most out of every drop of gas. Drivers looking for used models can head to NJ State Auto Auction, which carries a wide selection of makes and models.

Learning to drive is a rite of passage into adulthood, but many young motorists and their parents may be unaware of just how dangerous it can be for a new driver to get behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers, and teens are three times more likely to get into fatal accidents than drivers 20 and older.

A recent survey conducted by The Allstate Foundation indicates that more than two-thirds of parents expressed their regret in not spending more time teaching their teens about driving in high-risk situations, such as traffic jams and bad weather. Helping someone learn to drive can be a difficult task, but Allstate will be lending a hand with the launch of its new program, "Drive it Home." The initiative will offer vital information to teens and parents through the use of videos and graphics.

"We know from our research that parents are the No. 1 source of information for teen drivers, yet 40 percent don't know car crashes are the leading case of death for teens," said Vicky Dinges, vice president of corporate social responsibility at Allstate. "Drive it Home can help protect teen drivers, educate parents on the crucial role they play in the driving process, and help ensure our sons and daughters return home each and every night."

Once young drivers are armed with the know-how to stay safe behind the wheel, they will need a car that offers the utmost of safety. There are plenty of used cars that feature technology like lane departure warnings and backup assist, and drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can head to NJ State Auto Auction to check out the wide selection of makes and models.

When you're in the market for a used car, you might feel overwhelmed with all of your options and wonder how you can possibly weed through years' worth of makes and models to find the right vehicle for your budget. Thankfully industry experts often compile lists of the best vehicles for certain criteria, and Consumer Reports recently released its picks for the Best & Worst Used Cars for model years 2003 through 2012. This list can help drivers see which cars, trucks and SUVs are worth considering and which might be better to avoid.

"With so many choices, shopping for a used car can be overwhelming," said Rik Paul, automotive editor for Consumer Reports. "Our report provides a much-needed cheat sheet that Americans can refer to for help getting the best and most reliable used car that fits their budget."

Drivers who are looking to spend less than $20,000 on their next vehicles can check out models like the 2009 Mazda CX-9 and the 2007 and 2008 Honda Pilot. These choices offer ample seating, legroom and storage space, making them good choices for big families. Those on the lookout for fuel efficient vehicles can find hybrid models that are reliable and affordable, such as the 2010 and 2011 Toyota Prius, which Consumer Reports indicates has the best mileage of any used, non-plug-in, five-passenger model.

Models drivers may want to avoid include the Kia Sorento with a V6 engine, Mini Cooper S and Ford Explorer with a V6 and four-wheel drive. These and other models on Consumer Reports' "Worst" list rated poorly due to continued reliability ratings that fell well below the average.

Lists like this can help vehicle shoppers pare down their options in the search for used cars. Once they've eliminated all but a few options, drivers can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction to see some of the possibilities firsthand and take them for test drives before making a final decision.