When you prepare your vehicle for a road trip or get a tune-up to extend its life, you're doing everything you can to keep the automobile in peak condition. However, there is only so much you can do when it comes to keeping your car on the road for longer. Unforeseeable and unavoidable events pop up all the time, and while some of these situations may result in no more than nicks and scratches, others could cause serious damage to a vehicle. 

If you find yourself in the middle of a car accident, the first thing you should do is take note of your surroundings and get off of the road. You don't want to block traffic or put yourself in a dangerous situation, so moving to the side of the roadway whenever possible is your best bet. At that time, you can notify the proper authorities and appraise the situation. 

Another helpful tip is to take photographs of any damage or injuries, as these pictures can help move along insurance claims. 

"A car crash can leave you feeling overwhelmed, frightened and vulnerable," said Michael Consedine, the insurance commissioner for the Pennsylvania Insurance Department. "Even if the crash appears to be minor, consumers need to document what happened and contact their insurance company to start the claims process." 

If your car has suffered minor damage in an accident, or perhaps a major problem has sent you looking for a new ride, you do have options available that can help to keep costs low. At NJ State Auto Auction, there is a wide selection of CARFAX-certified vehicles on the lot, as well as a Total Car Care Center that can help drivers deal with issues that arise with their cars.