Study finds women are better drivers than men

"Anything you can do, I can do better."

The famous line from Annie Get Your Gun may come to mind with the release of a new study by 4AutoInsuraceQuote.com that shows female drivers are safer behind the wheel than their male counterparts. The study examined traffic violations and car accidents and found men are the cause of 80 percent of serious and fatal accidents. They're also 27 percent more likely to be involved in car crashes than the fairer sex.

"As a man, it's tough to admit," said James Schaffer, CEO of 4AutoInsuranceQuotes.com. "But if you look at the statistics, females are better drivers… by a long shot! It's almost scary how bad the average American male is at driving. Blame it on whatever you want – high testosterone, higher propensity to take risks or higher levels of aggression, but the fact remains – men simply make too many mistakes behind the wheel."

In every category, men fared worse than women. For instance, when it came to reports of driving under the influence, for every one female with a DUI, 3.08 males were guilty of the same charge. The gaps between the sexes may have something to do with the fact men put more miles on their cars than women.

Whether drivers have been in accidents or they just want to keep their car running well to reduce the risk of a crash, they can take their vehicles to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center. Certified mechanics can perform routine maintenance and address repairs to get motorists back on the road.

Martin Scorsese Will Produce Rolls-Royce Flick

Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese recently signed on to produce "Silver Ghost,' a movie about the lives and love affairs of Henry Royce and Charles Rolls. The film will focus on both the founding of the luxurious Rolls-Royce brand and a love affair between a very special Rolls-Royce model and Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, according to The Press Association.

Lord Montagu was heavily involved in the automotive world during his time in Parliament in the early 1900s. His mistress, Eleanor Thornton, is tied to the Rolls-Royce brand because she is the woman upon whom the brand's "Spirit of Ecstasy" emblem was based, Top Gear reports.

"When I read the story of 'Silver Ghost,' I was mesmerized," Scorsese said of his initial interest in the movie. "I immediately thought this is a picture that has to be made. And when I was asked to come aboard as a producer alongside Richard Attenborough and Anthony Haas, I didn't hesitate for a moment."

Scorsese, who has directed films such as "Hugo," "The Departed," "Taxi Driver" and "Goodfellas", has a knack for creating award-winning films that are well-crafted and beautiful. Actress Kiera Knightley's mother Sharman MacDonald wrote the screenplay for the movie, which has AutoBlog hoping her daughter will be cast as the leading lady.

Rolls-Royce vehicles are as well-known for their elegance and luxury features as they are for their expensive price tags. Drivers looking for used cars in New Jersey can head to the New Jersey State Auto Auction to find an affordable and luxurious model that suits their needs. They may not be able to get behind the wheel of a Phantom or a Ghost, but there are plenty of different makes and models to choose from.

Keep Bikes in Mind to Be Safe This Summer

As the weather gets warmer, motorists need to be aware of cyclists and share the road. AAA, in partnership with the League of American Bicyclists, is raising awareness of road safety during May, which is National Bike Month. The organizations have published a number of safety videos for drivers and cyclists on ShareTheRoad.AAA.com.

"This spring, warm weather is enticing more bicyclists to the roadways," said Rhonda Shah, AAA's traffic safety project manager. "And sadly, in 2010, 628 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes and an additional 52,000 were injured."

AAA offered a few tips for motorists to keep in mind as they hit the roads this spring and summer. Most importantly, drivers need to remember to share the road and pay attention to bicycles. Cyclists who ride in the road are subjected to the same rules and regulations as those behind the wheel of a car and deserve the same respect. Check your mirrors and your blind spots for cyclists before you change lanes, make turns or open your doors.

It is also important for drivers to resist the urge to honk their horn at cyclists. While this action is necessary to get the attention of other drivers in emergency situations, a horn is much louder to someone on a bike than it is to another driver. The sudden sound can startle a biker and cause them to swerve or even fall.

Some cars are equipped with blind spot detection and other warning systems that can help drivers stay safe around cyclists. Those looking for used cars in New Jersey may find vehicles with these and other helpful safety features at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The automaker has a variety of makes and models, including many newer autos with the latest amenities.

Memorial Day Weekend Travel to Increase

Many people recognize Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer, and it is often one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. AAA expects this year to be especially popular, with as many as 30.7 million Americans making trips of at least 50 miles, good for a 1.2 percent increase over the number of travelers last year.

The predictions are bit surprising given that gas prices have been hovering above $3.50 a gallon, but AAA found that most drivers won't let that affect their plans. In fact, 53 percent said gas price increases won't impact their decision at all. Of the remaining 47 percent, only 9 percent were planning on taking a shorter trip, while 34 percent are going to make sacrifices in other areas to save money.

"The overall domestic economic picture continues to improve slightly, however, American consumers faced a new challenge this year as steadily increasing gas prices throughout the spring significantly squeezed many household budgets," said AAA president and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet.

One way drivers can save money is to make sure they are up to date on maintenance, which is especially important as they get ready to head off on a Memorial Day road trip. Before you hit the open road, the DMV recommends checking a few things including the motor oil, antifreeze and battery level to make sure you don't run into any problems during your trip.

In advance of your journey, you may also want to head to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center. Its stable of talented mechanics will be able to identify any issues before you embark so you can enjoy your Memorial Day weekend without any speed bumps.

KBB Report Indicates Slower Sales and Potential Gas Price Drop

The latest monthly market report by Kelley Blue Book (KBB) indicates the price of used cars may soon begin to drop thanks to the decline in gas prices. As the cost of fuel drops, the demand for used fuel-efficient vehicles will as well. KBB expects the average price of small economic vehicles to drop about 1 to 2 percent over the summer.

"In 2011, fuel prices peaked in May at $3.97 per gallon before falling down to $3.20 per gallon by year end," said Alec Guttierez, senior market analyst of automotive insights for Kelley Blue Book. "Gas prices could repeat or surpass these lows once again this year, especially with Europe in recession."

KBB's report indicates sales of fuel efficient vehicles may lag if gas prices drop. However, the cost of fuel is not expected to dip below the $3 mark, so it is unlikely the reduction in sales will be very significant. Subcompact, compact and hybrid cars only accounted for 21.5 percent of auto sales in April, which is the lowest monthly volume for this grouping of vehicles this year.

Whether drivers want to get behind the wheel of fuel-efficient models or would prefer something bigger, those looking for used cars in NJ can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a variety of makes and models so motorists will be able to find something to suit their needs. Plus, all models are CARFAX certified, so drivers know they're getting a reliable ride from NJ Auto.

Total Car Score recommends ideal vehicles for college grads

When you graduate from college and start looking for a full-time job, you're likely going to need a car to get there. However, choosing the right vehicle can be challenging, as there are so many different options out there. It's also important to find an affordable ride, as your budget may soon include student loans as well as car payments. Total Car Score, an automotive research website, recently published a list of the "Top 10 Cars for College Graduates," which can be a helpful guide for those looking for new or used cars in New Jersey. It looked at a number of features including safety, efficiency, performance and comfort as well as pricing  to determine the best choices.

"College grads are looking to make an investment in a car that is reliable and cost-conscious," said Karl Brauer, Total Car Score's editor-in-chief. "We compiled a list of the top-rated cars that offer the best quality while still being very affordable. In today's extremely competitive new-car market automakers are providing higher-quality cars at lower prices. These models offer more technology and convenience features than ever before in the compact car segment."

Every car on the top 10 list has an MSRP under $25,000, and all but three of the vehicles start under $17,000. The Mazda3 and the Mazdaspeed 3 were chosen for their fuel-efficient SkyActiv engine technology. The new Ford Focus also made the grade thanks to recent upgrades and improvements over past models. Volkswagen had a heavy presence on the list with three models – the Golf, GTI and Jetta. The Hyundai Elantra, Chevy Cruze, Scion xB and Kia Forte were also in the top 10.

Students in the market for a used Focus or Jetta can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which has a wide variety of makes and models.

Bentley and Ferrari celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee

Ferrari is helping Queen Elizabeth II celebrate 60 years on the throne by displaying some of the best cars the Italian automaker has to offer. A number of new and classic models will be shown off during the four-day Diamond Jubilee Pageant being held to honor the queen from May 10 to 13.

The car company also brought along the Fourth Mounted Carabinieri Regiment to show off their refined riding skills and showmanship in a choreographed display called the Carosello. The riders and their horses are performing their routine among the Ferraris.

Ferrari was not the only car company that wanted to be a part of the celebration. Bentley built 60 limited edition Mulsannes for the occasion – one car for every year of the Queen's reign. The automaker debuted the first Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition at the opening of its largest dealerships in Beijing, China. The nation has quickly become the largest market for Bentley.

"This series of special cars, hand-built by our Mulliner Division, is our way of reciprocating the appreciation for British institutions, creativity and services we have been shown in China," said Richard Charlesworth, Bentley Motors' director of Royal and VIP relations. "And as proud holders of a Royal Warrant, we also wanted to provide some memorable examples of British technology and craftsmanship."

While most drivers will not be able to get their hands on one of these special edition Bentleys, those looking for used cars in NJ can find the ride they want at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a variety of makes and models, and all their vehicles are CARFAX certified, so consumers know they're getting a reliable ride.

How to Find the Best Used Car Deal

By deciding to purchase a used car in New Jersey, shoppers have already made a smart choice if they're looking to save money. But while purchasing a pre-owned vehicle is a good start, there are some ways you can ensure you'll find an even better deal.

A good place to start on your hunt for an affordable used car is by looking at what the best selling cars were three or four years ago, NASDAQ suggests. Experts say because cars like the Honda Civic and Volkswagen Jetta were popular in 2008 and 2009, there are likely a lot more of them on used car lots than less popular vehicles, like the Nissan Sentra or Ford Focus. As a result, you'll probably get a better deal.

In a similar vein, you should makes sure to do plenty of research before heading to the lot. Luckily, there are a number of resources available to prospective buyers, so you can look at everything from safety ratings to fuel-efficiency and reviews by previous drivers to get a good idea of which car is the best deal. Additionally, thanks to websites like Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, you can get an idea for what a fair price is for your ideal car.

Last but not least, you'll want to head to the right place. In this case, New Jersey State Auto Auction is your best bet. You can choose from a wide variety of makes and models, ranging from SUVs to vans to compact cars, and they're all CARFAX certified, so you know you're getting a reliable car when you drive off the lot.

TrueCar.com Highlights the Most Popular Vehicles for Families

Modern mothers place as much value on the style of the cars they drive as they do functionality and reliability. A recent by TrueCar.com based on data from 2011 found minivans are taking a backseat to other vehicles, as crossovers and sedans dominated the list. The Honda CR-V was found to be the most popular car for moms, and the brand was the most dominant on the list, with four other vehicles making the top 10 – the Civic, Accord, Pilot and Odyssey.

"The data shows moms prefer vehicles that combine practicality with style," said Kristen Andersson, senior analyst for TrueCar.com. "Bigger is not always better when it comes to moms' favorite vehicles as evidenced by the lack of any large SUVs and only one minivan in the overall top 10."

The Honda Odyssey was ranked third on the list, as it is a top choice for mothers with at least two kids. The minivan earned such a top ranking position because if seats eight and has loads of cargo space. The Civic came in at number nine, but was one of the least expensive vehicles to break into the top 10, along with Nissan's Sentra and Altima. The average amount paid for the Civic and the Altima was under $20,500, and the Sentra had an average sale price of just under $19,000.

Whatever vehicle fits the bill for your family, New Jersey State Auto Auction is sure to have something to suit your needs. The dealer offers a wide variety of makes and models at affordable pricing so you can get behind the wheel of a stylish crossover SUV, sedan or even a minivan without breaking your budget.

Kia Sportage Named “Best Value” Small SUV by USAA

The United Services Automobile Association (USAA), a financial company that caters to military families, recently named the 2012 Kia Sportage as having the "Best Value" in the small SUV category. The crossover was chosen for its low insurance rates, competitive pricing and safety features. The USAA chose the cars on its list based on a few categories – purchase price, safety, reliability and fuel costs.

"The Kia Sportage being named to USAA's 'Best Value' list for the second year in a row is not only indicative of this utility's affordability factor, but also validates it as one of the most well-rounded offerings in its segment," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications for Kia Motors America. "The Sportage is the ideal vehicle for anyone who seeks a lively crossover that's comfortable and offers an abundance of safety features and amenities."

The Insurance Institute for HIghway Safety named the Sportage a Top Safety Pick as the car had "Good," ratings across the three main categories, roof strength, frontal offset and side impact tests. The same safety ratings hold true for the 2011 model as well. A new 2012 model Sportage starts around $18,500 before including any additional amenities and features. Edmunds indicates the true market value of a 2011 model is around $16,625, and this cost may encompass things like automatic transmission, an infotainment system and backup warning system.

Those looking for used cars in NJ can stop by New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide variety of makes and models, whether drivers prefer to get behind the wheel of a pre-owned Kia Sportage or a smaller, more fuel-efficient sedan.