June 1 marks the start of hurricane season for the Atlantic Coast, and people who live along the ocean are urged to begin preparing for the worst. While it is impossible to predict just how many storms will hit the coast this year, it is wise to be prepared, even if you don't live in the southern U.S.

New Jersey has been hit with many hurricanes over the years – some more severe than others – so residents should be ready. This includes everything from keeping emergency supplies in the home to making sure your car is running well in case there is a mandatory evacuation. You can bring your car to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center in Jersey City to get a tuneup and ensure there are no major issues that could leave you stranded in a tropical storm.

Aside from taking care of your vehicle, you might want to keep some supplies in the trunk just in case. Road flares, emergency blankets, ponchos, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit and water are all useful items to keep in your car during hurricane season and all year long.

You should also familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation routes whether you live along the shore or further inland. There are typically signs posted on major roads that guide you away from the ocean, but if you're evacuating the area during heavy rain, you may not be able to see these markers easily. The New Jersey Office of emergency Management provides maps of all evacuation routes online. You can learn them ahead of time or print out a map to keep in the glove compartment.

As people age, there comes a point when it is no longer safe for them to get behind the wheel of a car. It becomes increasingly difficult for older adults to see at night, and AAA reports a 60-year-old needs three times as much light to see as clearly as a 20-year-old. Hearing loss and slowed reaction times can be contributing factors as well.

While it is necessary for seniors to give up driving eventually, many are unable to tell when their time has come. A recent survey conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) found most older adults (85 percent) think they are "excellent" or "good" drivers. However, 25 percent of this same group of drivers ages 65 to 91 also reported being involved in motor vehicle crashes in the past year.

"A large debate in driving research is whether or not at-risk drivers can self-regulate, and thus possibly reduce their crash risk," said study author Dr. Lesley Ross, an assistant professor in UAB's psychology department. "This research indicates that, at least for this sample, a previous history of four adverse driving outcomes has no relationship with the self-reported driving ability, thus possibly indicating a lack of awareness in regards to driving abilities. The majority of older adults can continue to drive safely well into old age. However, there is a group of older drivers who are at greater risk for crashing."

AAA provides an online assessment test that older drivers can take to determine if they fall into this at-risk category. They should also heed warnings offered by friends, family and physicians when they are told it may be time to hand over their keys. Those who don't have to give up this pastime can head over the New Jersey State Auto Auction to pick out their next ride. The dealer has a variety of makes and models at affordable prices.

Ford recently announced that performance fans will soon get the chance to get behind the wheel of one of the automaker's newest compact sports cars – the 2013 Ford Focus ST. This summer, the car company will host events in New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Los Angeles where driving enthusiasts can test out the upcoming car. Each event will feature two separate driving courses sure to make anyone with a need for speed a bit weak in the knees.

The first course will be all about performance training and the second is a timed autocross. Those who sign up for the event, which must be done ahead of time, can learn how to better handle the sporty model and then put their new knowledge to the test.

"Our fans have expressed extremely high interest in this car, but we know the proof is in the pudding," said Lisa Schoder, Ford Focus ST marketing manager. "We want ST fans, as well as drivers of competitive vehicles, to be able to taste this car firsthand. What better way to do it than to bring the car to the people with the help of professional driver instruction on closed courses."

The Ford Focus ST hit showroom floors across the nation in May. It offers 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft. of torque from a 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine. It was designed to work wonders as an everyday driver and still allow the motorist to unleash power on the track. The new car starts around $24,500, so not everyone will be able to afford this sporty new compact.

However, those looking for powerful used cars in New Jersey can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The used car dealer has a wide variety of makes and models, from traditional sports cars to the unexpected powerhouse. Drivers can always opt for something a bit more modest and tack on aftermarket accessories to enhance the vehicle's performance.

When you're shopping for a used car in New Jersey, you should thoroughly research your purchase before making a final decision. This includes everything from determining the market value of a particular model and assessing the total cost of ownership to test driving and inspecting the vehicle itself.

Many drivers may not be aware of the importance of inspecting the vehicle, but doing so can help them spot and avoid a "lemon." Lemons are cars that have sustained significant damages or undergone repairs that drastically reduce their value, but many private sellers and some used car dealers may try to pull the wool over consumers' eyes to make money off their cars. Not all dealers are out to deceive car shoppers. New Jersey State Auto Auction, for instance, guarantees the quality of their vehicles, which are all CARFAX certified, so drivers know they're getting behind the wheel of reliable vehicles.

However, it is always a safe bet to give a car a once over, just in case something is wrong that may have gone unnoticed. The Wall Street Journal recommends looking for mismatched paint and checking for uniformity along any seams in the car's body. This can indicate major repair work was done. You should also check for signs of flood damage inside the engine. Look for water lines under the hood that could hint the vehicle has been exposed to water damage. This can not only impact the value of the car, but has likely caused a significant amount of damage and rust.

The best way to ensure a vehicle is in the condition the seller claims is to have a trusted independent mechanic inspect the car before you make a purchase. This typically costs between $75 and $150, according to the news source.