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.

It seems as though there are more and more technological advancements in the automotive industry every day, but used car shoppers don't have to miss out on the latest features. According to Kelley Blue Book, a number of models have been overhauled in recent years, giving buyers more options to choose from in both the new and used markets.

"Since the 2011 model year, nearly every vehicle in each major selling category has undergone a significant redesign that has upped expectations of consumers by a sizeable margin," said Alec Gutierrez, senior market analyst of automotive insights for KBB. "Shoppers considering one of the latest and greatest can count on significant improvements in fuel economy, performance, build quality, amenities and style from the generation being replaced, and all for only a modest bump in its manufacturer's suggested retail price."

While KBB may have been looking at 2013 models, the same applies to slightly older vehicles. Drivers hoping to find 1- to 3-year old previously owned cars can check out models like the 2011 Hyundai Elantra GLS, which was priced at $19,475 when new. Newsday.com named this car one of the best for under $20,000 that year. Now, car shoppers may be able to find these vehicles for under $15,000 at dealerships like New Jersey State Auto Auction.

There are many different models that were affordable when they first rolled off the production line in 2011, making them easier on the wallet now. CNET points to vehicles like the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent and Scion iQ as models that offer technological features and fuel economy without breaking the budget. 

Vehicle shoppers can check out their options at NJ Auto Auction, which carries a wide selection of makes and models. The dealership also offers full vehicle history reports from CARFAX, so drivers know they're getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride with whatever they choose. 

Across the board, the average cost of used cars has ebbed in recent months, but compact, fuel efficient models are still in high demand. A recent report by Kelley Blue Book found that there is a negligible different between buying a new compact car and a vehicle that is about 1 year old. The average price difference between a new 2013 model and a used vehicle from 2012 is about $2,500, which works out to around $30 per month on a five-year loan.

“Used compacts have been in high demand with fuel prices nearly $3.42 per gallon nationally, and values have held strong as a result,” said Alec Gutierrez, senior market analyst of automotive insights for KBB. “A consumer looking to save at least $100 or more per month on a used car would need to consider a model-year 2009 or older, which likely would have 50,000 miles or more on the odometer.”

That’s not to say that an older used model is not worth the money, as many vehicles made before 2009 are still reliable, fuel efficient and fun to drive. Choosing an older compact car over a newer used model or a brand new vehicle may mean the ride is a bit more worn in, but the purchase price could be hundred or even thousands of dollars lower than the other options, and drivers can still save at the pump in an older car. 

Car shoppers who would like to get behind the wheel of a previously owned compact sedan can head to New Jersey Auto Auction. The dealer has a wide selection of makes and models to choose from, and every car on the lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers will know exactly what they’re getting.

Land Rover is starting out 2013 with impressive sales, and the vehicles aren’t even built yet. AutoBlog reports the new 2013 Range Rover has already been sold out for at least six months to a year across the globe.

Why is the Range Rover so popular?
This popular British SUV has been a top performer for many years, so this news may not come as too big a surprise, especially given that the newest model received a number of innovative upgrades. It is lighter and more fuel-efficient, which contributes to a better overall driving experience than could be found in previous models, according to LeftLane News.

High demand will boost Land Rover’s sales
Due to the backorder of the base level trim of the Range Rover, Land Rover is actually only going to offer the higher HSE trim in North America. The automaker believes that even though there is a wait list, annual sales will top the 44,664-unit total from 2012, New York Daily News reports.

Used car shoppers should expect higher prices
Drivers who are planning to purchase used Range Rovers in the future should keep in mind the re-sale price of these models is likely to be higher than it would be for other model years. Not only is the vehicle already highly sought after, but the higher trim level comes with more features and perks that boost the overall value.

Those looking to get behind the wheel of a luxurious used car or SUV soon can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, and every vehicle on the lot is CARFAX certified, so car shoppers will know they’re driving away in a reliable ride.