While it is important for drivers to always pay attention to the road and watch for pedestrians, some situations don't leave a lot of reaction time. For instance, if a person steps into the road from behind a large truck, a driver would not be able to see them until they were already in the street. General Motors is working to find the solution to this problem – a Wi-Fi application that can detect pedestrians, bicyclists and other dangers on the roadway.

"This new wireless capability could warn drivers about pedestrians who might be stepping into the roadway from behind a parked vehicle, or bicyclists who are riding in the car's blind spot," said Nancy Boules, GM's global research and development director of the electrical and control systems research lab. "Wi-Fi Direct has the potential to become an integral part of the comprehensive driver assistance systems we offer on many of our Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC vehicles."

GM's safety assistance technology is based on Wi-Fi Direct, a peer-to-peer development that allows wireless devices to connect with one another directly. Most peer-to-peer technology involves signals being sent to and from cellphone towers, which could add seconds to the delivery of a warning signal. Vehicles with the Wi-Fi Direct technology would be able to interact with nearby smartphones and other wireless devices that has the same app almost instantly. Drivers would be alerted if there was a potential danger ahead or in their blind spot, which could help prevent countless accidents.

While this technology may not be available just yet, drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a safe, reliable vehicle should head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. Every model is CARFAX certified, and there is a wide variety to choose from.