Most drivers are aware of the basic tasks they must stay on top of to keep a vehicle safe. From standard preventative maintenance to swift auto repair, these actions can help motorists avoid problems on the road. However, drivers also need to follow the rules when they're behind the wheel, and that includes giving traffic their undivided attention. 

Unfortunately, many continue to use cellphones and other mobile devices when they're on the road. According to a survey from PEMCO Insurance, about half of drivers under the age of 35 report sometimes texting behind the wheel, and another one-fifth say they talk on the phone while driving. 

To top it off, drivers of every age report using cellphones when driving and trying to conceal this use from police officers or others on the roads. 

"Many of us see fellow commuters holding a cellphone, maybe not to their ear, but near their face or on their lap while steering one-handed," said Jon Osterberg, a spokesperson for an insurance company. "The law's intent is to ban drivers from holding cellphones, period, because it's unsafe for everyone sharing the road." 

The Department of Transportation found that sending a text causes a driver to look away from the road for almost five seconds. That distraction may play a role in one-fourth of all crashes on the road, despite the fact that many states have enacted laws to prevent texting and cellphone use when driving. 

Practicing good habits when you're behind the wheel is just one part of driving safely. You also must have a vehicle that has the safety features needed, and you can start your search for that automobile at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot has hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, many of which offer high-quality performance and amenities at affordable prices.