It's not uncommon to encounter many different kinds of obstacles when traveling during the winter. Whether it's icy roads, snow banks or wild animals foraging for food near the roads, there is a good chance you will encounter some kind of complication when behind the wheel. You can take steps to avoid this, however, especially if you know what to look out for when it comes to deer and other wild animals. 

Unfortunately, accidents involving whitetail deer are a regular occurrence throughout the winter. They can lead to expensive damage to a vehicle – and harm to drivers, passengers or to the animals themselves. To avoid these collisions, drivers should start by slowing down. It is also important to stay alert, particularly during times when deer may be more active, including the hours between dawn and dusk. You should also stay alert when driving on roads near wooded areas where these creatures may make their homes. 

"Deer-vehicle collisions are an unfortunate and often painful consequence of living with whitetails, and there's no predicting when or where they might occur," said Carl G. Roe, executive director of the Game Commission. "Drivers should be advised, however, that deer have entered a period of increased activity and are crossing roads more often as a result. So now more than ever is a time to use extreme caution while behind the wheel." 

If you want to make sure your vehicle is capable of handling the steering and braking necessary to avoid collisions, bring it in to a garage like the one at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The Total Car Care Center at this auction lot can address any issues you may have regarding a vehicle. 

When it comes to shopping around for a used car, many drivers are probably looking for models that are equipped with the latest technology and impressive safety features. The vast majority, however, want to find a pre-owned vehicle that boasts impressive fuel economy. Fuel economy is the one quality that almost all motorists desire, and many are willing to pay a bit more or make other sacrifices to get it. 

A recent survey from Morpace Inc., titled Powertrain Acceptance and Consumer Engagement, looked at the issues drivers care about. It found that 68 percent of motorists claim they would sacrifice vehicle performance for better fuel economy. An additional 62 percent said they would shop around with different makes and models to find the vehicle that was the most fuel efficient – largely because only 28 percent are satisfied with the mileage offered by their current ride. 

Although many people want solid mileage, they are not ready to make the leap to hybrid or electric cars. Only 48 percent of drivers said they would pay more for a vehicle that is environmentally friendly, despite valuing fuel economy over other factors. 

"What is obvious this year is that fuel economy continues to have a significant impact on consumers," said Bryan Krulikowski, the vice president of Morpace automotive. "… Aside from vehicle quality, fuel economy reigns king among vehicle owners. While many consumers indicate an initial interest in battery-powered vehicles, real-world challenges remain an obstacle to adoption in the marketplace." 

If you're searching for a used car that has excellent fuel economy, consider looking at the options available at NJ State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, many of which offer solid mileage and an array of other desirable features that drivers are looking for. 

Drivers throughout the state of New York may soon be able to pick up speed on the roadways. State assemblyman Luis Sepulveda recently submitted a bill that would allow New York's transportation commissioner to raise the speed limit on any interstate highway to 75 mph, The Buffalo News reported. 

If the legislation passes, New York would join 16 other states that currently allow the speed limit on certain roads to reach 75 mph. Any streets with at least four lanes of traffic and separation between lanes traveling in opposite directions would also be allowed to increase the speed limit to 65 mph, the news source reported. 

Not everyone supports the measure. Several safety organizations will likely oppose the bill, claiming that it may lead to more accidents and injuries on the road. Individual drivers may also push back against the legislation. However, motorists who take steps to improve their personal safety by checking in on vehicle features may be able to gain some peace of mind behind the wheel no matter what the speed limits are. 

Any increase in speed limits should send drivers to a local auto repair spots for a basic tune up. Cars will need to be able to handle braking and steering at higher speeds, and they should also have blinkers and lights working properly to properly communicate with others on the road. 

Before you can get your vehicle to go at faster speeds, you should make sure it is capable of offering safe passage on the roads. Consider taking your vehicle in for a tune up at the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction. The garage caters to the public and is capable of handling any issues you may have. 

If you find yourself stuck in traffic jams or battling heavy congestion on the roads each day, rest assured it's not just your bad luck. There are more cars on the road now than in the past several years, and much of this influx is due to the rebounding economy, as well as an improved pool of used cars for sale. 

According to research from Experian Automotive, the number of vehicles on the road has reached its highest level since 2009. The total number of registered cars and light trucks reached 247.9 million by the end of the third quarter of 2013, which was the largest amount in four years. 

That's not the only noteworthy mark. The data from Experian also revealed that the average age of all vehicles on the road was 10.9 years – more than a full year older than the average at the same time in 2009. In fact, more than half of all of the vehicles on the road were manufactured between 2000 and 2008, meaning that the majority of the all cars were used models. 

The increasing number of vehicles on the road is a reflection of the economic environment, which makes it easier for all drivers to get a car than in recent years. If you're a prospective buyer who is ready to join the legions of motorists heading to the highways, consider stopping by New Jersey State Auto Auction to browse through the selection of pre-owned vehicles. This auction lot boasts hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, and any one of these automobiles could be a solid choice for drivers looking to get behind the wheel. 

All drivers know that proper maintenance is essential to extending the life of a vehicle. Whether it's rotating the tires or getting an oil change, these small actions can make a big difference in the quality of a drive, and as such motorists usually make sure to get the right service.

However, there are some areas of a vehicle that may not receive the attention they need. For example, minivans have a unique feature – sliding doors – that need a special kind of maintenance. 

Motor Matters recommends servicing the minivan's sliding doors at the same time you take it in for an oil change. These doors can become stiff and difficult to move, or they could experience electrical problems that interfere with their function, and doors that don't work properly are a safety hazard. 

"The doors require cleaning and lubing at the lower track, which always collect debris and will rust up if not treated, as well as the upper slide rail and rollers and all latches," the news source stated. "In some cases when the owner does not want to spend money for a failed electric slide motor … [it may be best to] disconnect the motor and cable." 

The doors of a minivan are just one aspect of a vehicle that needs regular maintenance. In reality, there are many areas of a vehicle that often go overlooked when it comes to repairs and upkeep, and ignoring them could have a major impact on the performance and functionality of your car. Luckily, you can take a vehicle to the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction for a tune up. The garage caters to the public and is capable of addressing any issues you may have. 

People young and old love Halloween, but while it might be popular, this festive holiday can pose some problems for drivers. With so many motorists and pedestrians heading out for fun, everyone must take steps to stay safe on the roads, and that includes practicing safe driving habits and remaining aware of your surroundings. 

"On Halloween, drivers need to be especially vigilant between the hours of 4 p.m. and midnight, when pedestrians are most vulnerable," said Sharon Gilmartin, a research analyst for AAA. "While trick-or-treating, children may not pay attention to traffic and might cross mid-block or between parked cars, making them even more difficult to see in the dark."

Not only do families and other drivers have to watch out for trick-or-treaters, but people who head out to more mature parties also need to be prepared to handle the difficulties of the road. 

"Halloween has become an increasingly popular occasion for adults to host and attend parties where alcohol is frequently served," Gilmartin continued. "By designating a sober driver, or by choosing not to drink if driving, this holiday can remain a treat for everyone." 

All motorists can be safe by designating a sober driver, sticking to main roads instead of neighborhoods or residential areas, and driving slowly. Pedestrians should travel in groups so they are easier to spot and wear bright colors or reflective gear, which makes them more visible to motorists. 

Safe driving is one of the most important things you can do when you get behind the wheel, and it helps to have a safe vehicle. If you want to update your ride to a used car that has excellent features and modern technology, check out the options at NJ State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of CARFAX-certified vehicles that offer excellent protection and quality for drivers. 

With winter quickly approaching, many drivers are getting ready to deal with rough road conditions. Although some motorists are used to handling themselves on icy roads and in situations with poor visibility, young drivers that are experiencing the season for the first time behind the wheel will not be familiar with the best practices for winter driving. 

Luckily, there are ways teens can learn to handle extreme conditions. One of the best methods is to drive with parents, as this offers a chance to see the proper techniques. This may include driving in rain or snow, learning how the car breaks in wintry conditions and staying calm no matter what happens. 

"While teens who have participated in a quality driver education program are exposed to difficult driving conditions, parental guidance is essential for the long-term success of any new driver," said Sandra Maxwell, director of driver education programs for AAA. "Because parents have the unique opportunity to sit in the passenger seat and coach their teen, they have the ability to ensure lifelong safe driving habits at the critical learning-to-drive stage." 

Young people should also be versed in avoiding animals, driving on rural roads, and accommodating bikes, large trucks and motorcycles while behind the wheel. 

Teens who are just beginning their driving experience need a safe, reliable vehicle. Not only will this provide them with a great environment for learning the rules of the road, but it also offers parents some peace of mind. If you need to find such a vehicle, consider looking for a ride at NJ State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that are ideal for parents and their young drivers.