The National Safety Council (NSC) recently reported that the number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries increased in 2012. The news is especially alarming, as the rate of traffic accidents resulting in death or injuries that require medical treatment has trended downward in recent years – this is the first time the rate has increased since 2004 to 2005.

According to the NSC report, there were roughly 36,200 crash-related deaths in 2012, which is 5 percent higher than in 2011. The agency suggested that the increase could be linked to both distracted driving and the fact that people across the country are traveling more.

"NSC is greatly concerned with the upswing in traffic fatalities on our nation's roads," said Janet Froetscher, president and CEO of the agency. "Although we have improved safety features in vehicles today, we also have new challenges, especially as it relates to teen and distracted driving, that need to be addressed on a national scale. We must work together now to reverse this latest trend to prevent needless tragedy."

Drivers can take many steps to stay safer on the road, including traveling at the speed limit, keeping their vehicles in good condition, and avoiding dangerous behavior like texting or adjusting the radio. A car that runs well is less likely to break down and cause an accident.

Many vehicles that have come out in recent years are also loaded with safety features like brake assist, rearview backup cameras and lane departure warnings. Those thinking about purchasing used cars can head to NJ State Auto Auction to find vehicles that offer these and other safety technologies. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models from subcompact cars to large SUVs.