There are many different aspects consumers needs to pay attention to when shopping for new or used cars in New Jersey. Everything from researching the market value of the vehicle to finding out how it compares to similar makes and models can contribute to the final decision, but the test drive is the best chance to really find out if a certain vehicle is right for you. Getting behind the wheel gives you the chance to check for any issues with how the car drives, the interior features and other things like visibility and cargo space.

"The test drive can be the most important aspect of buying a new or used car, but it's also one of the most overlooked," said Joe Wiesenfelder, executive editor for Cars.com. "We want to ensure that shoppers don't let their emotions get the best of them when they should be gathering the important information they need to make the right purchase."

Cars.com recommends giving the vehicle a thorough once-over before you even start it up. Checking the door handles, power windows, radio and other features is a good start, especially when choosing a used vehicle. There may be something minor, such as a seat adjuster that sticks, that will wind up driving you up a wall if you buy the car. When you're sitting in the driver's seat, make sure you have clear visibility. You may find the SUV you had your heart on makes it next to impossible to see behind you. Cars.com recommends checking the storage space of the vehicle to ensure it will fit your needs.

New Jersey State Auto Auction carries a wide variety of makes and models, giving you will have plenty of options to choose from. Plus, all their vehicles are CARFAX certified, so you know you're getting a reliable vehicle.

Whether you're planning to hop in the car and head to the beach or you just want to stay home and enjoy the holiday weekend, you should be sure to keep car safety in mind. Memorial Day is notorious for celebrations and barbeques, and this often includes indulging in a few alcoholic drinks. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is reminding people to think twice before getting behind the wheel after the parties are over.

"MADD wants people to be safe on the roads this holiday weekend, so we have some tips to help," said MADD national president Jan Withers. "Coupled with law enforcement's efforts to deter and detect drunk driving, we hope this information will help keep our loved ones safe."

The organization recommends people plan ahead if they want to commemorate the beginning of summer with a few brews. Choose a designated driver before the festivities begin, and be extra careful and aware on the road. There is likely to be an increase of pedestrians, so it's especially important to observe the speed limits and pay attention to everything going on around you. MADD also suggests watching out for other motorists who appear to be driving erratically. If you notice this behavior, it is best to stay out of their way. If they are behind you, pull over and let them pass rather than risk being nearby if they lose control of their vehicle.

It can also be a good idea to get a tuneup before the weekend to ensure your car is running smoothly and reduce the risk of a crash when you're trying to enjoy the holiday. The automotive experts at New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center can perform routine maintenance and address any necessary repairs so your car is running well this Memorial Day.

The  price of gas may have stopped climbing for the moment, but drivers are still concerned with fuel economy when it comes to picking out their next vehicles. A recent survey conducted by Consumer Reports found fuel efficiency is the most important factor for the majority of drivers. Roughly 37 percent of survey respondents said this was their top concern, while quality (17 percent) and safety (16 percent) rounded out the top three. Value (14 percent) and performance (6 percent) were also leading factors.

"These results make it clear that high fuel prices are continuing to impact driver behavior and influencing future purchase considerations," said Jeff Bartlett, deputy auto editor for Consumer Reports. "While quality, safety and value are still important, this may be foreshadowing a market shift by folks seeking relief at the pump."

Choosing a fuel efficient vehicle was not all about saving money either, as 65 percent of female drivers and 58 percent of men claimed they wanted to get behind the wheel of a vehicle with decent fuel economy to reduce their impact on the environment. Vehicles with alternative options, such as electric, hybrid and diesel cars, are gaining popularity as well, according to the survey results. More drivers (73 percent) are willing to consider these types of vehicles that ever before.

Whether drivers want to get behind the wheel of an electric car like the Chevy Volt or a hybrid like the best-selling Toyota Prius, they can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The deal has a wide selection of used cars in NJ to choose from, including alternative fuel options as well as efficient gasoline-powered models.

"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.

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.