The holiday season is a time filled with cheer, friends and celebrations, but New Year's Eve is also full of dangers, especially on the road. A recent survey by Students Against Destructive Decisions and Liberty Mutual Insurance revealed that roughly 12 percent of teen drivers admitted to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol on this holiday. Even though 49 percent of surveyed teen drivers indicated they believe New Year's Eve is a dangerous time to drive, it is still essential for parents to talk to their kids about the risks as well as good behaviors to ensure they are safe while ringing in 2013.

"There are approximately 3,000 teenage driving-related deaths a year, a third of which involve alcohol," said Dave Melton, a driving safety expert and managing director of global safety for Liberty Mutual Insurance. "Parents have to play an active role in preventing underage drinking. Talk to your kids before New Year's celebrating begins and make sure they understand the importance of making smart, and possibly life-saving, decisions."

The risk of being involved in a crash is typically higher around any holidays, especially on New Year's Eve. More people are celebrating with alcohol, which increases the risk of encountering drunk drivers. The weather can also be an important risk factor to consider, as there is a chance that roads could be icy. These are both crucial points for parents to discuss with their teens before the holiday to ensure everyone can safely enjoy the celebrations and start 2013 on a good note.

In addition to discussing driving safety and good behaviors behind the wheel with teen drivers, parents can be sure they are safer on the road by putting them behind the wheel of a reliable vehicle. New Jersey State Auto Auction has a wide selection of makes and models to choose from, all of which are CARFAX certified.

Alternative fuel vehicles have been available for nearly a decade, but sales have been slow for the better part of this time period. Recent research conducted by Mintel, a data analysis company, has found that hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles have been growing increasingly popular this year. In fact, the data shows that sales of these types of vehicles increased an impressive 73 percent, making the segment the fastest growing in the industry for the year.

"New midsize hybrid models, such as the Toyota Prius v and Chevrolet Malibu Eco, have proven popular with consumers, in particular families, who want to buy green without sacrificing other features that fit their lifestyles," said Colin Bird, an automotive analyst at Mintel. "The segment will grow even further in 2013, with the launch of several new models, including the full Ford Fusion Hybrid series and the Honda Accord Hybrid, which will fulfill a wider variety of needs than conventional compact hybrids. Midsize plug-in hybrids will also enter the mainstream in 2013, with the introduction of the Ford Fusion
Energi and the Honda Accord Plug-In, which will further improve mainstream acceptance of this still fairly novel powertrain segment."

While there are many new alternative energy vehicles on the horizon, drivers who are looking to purchase used cars have a number of options to choose from. The Chevrolet Volt, Nissan Leaf and a variety of hybrid models have been on the market long enough that they are starting to turn up on used lots. Drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can check out the selection of hybrids like the Toyota Prius at NJ State Auto Auction. Every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, so whether car shoppers find a hybrid or a fuel efficient gas-powered car, they'll be able to drive away with confidence.

Chances are that you don't want your car to break down on the way to visit your loved ones this holiday season, so it is important to make sure you are prepared to travel safely. AAA is predicting there will be more than 1.2 million drivers who get stuck on the side of the road during holiday travel, whether they get locked out of their cars, need jumps or battery replacements, have flat tires or need a tow.

"Becoming stranded on the roadway is the last thing on anyone's holiday wishlist," said Marshall L. Doney, AAA National's vice president of automotive, financial services and e-business. "Whether you are staying local or planning a long distance road trip, having your vehicle properly maintained and prepared for holiday driving will help ensure it gets you and your loved ones to your destination safely and without incident."

In order to reduce your chances of being stranded, you should get a routine tuneup and address minor issues that could worsen, such as leaks or worn parts. You can visually inspect the belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage yourself. Belts should be free of tears and should not sag or feel loose. Hoses should be pliable – not too soft or hard to the touch. If you suspect any belts or hoses are in need of replacement, you can bring you car to NJ State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center to have the issue taken care of. This will help you avoid further damages that could be more complicated and expensive to repair.

It is also important to check fluid levels and ensure there is plenty of antifreeze, as this protects against frozen fluids in the pipes of your engine. Top off the windshield wiper fluid and check the wiper blades to ensure they are in good condition, replacing them if necessary. AAA also recommends inspecting tires to ensure they have a good tread and the correct air pressure.

Kelley Blue Book recently named the new Ford Fusion as the 2013 Best Redesigned Vehicle. The midsize sedan beat out more than 20 other models that also went through extensive changes for the new year. KBB judges looked at a variety of categories, including exterior and interior design, driving dynamics, technology, comfort and convenience features, performance and value. The Fusion outshone its competitors, and Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB, explained that the choice was an easy one.

"More than a handful of vehicles made the shortlist for this year, but ultimately the 2013 Ford Fusion was named KBB.com's 2013 Best Redesigned Vehicle with impressive gains in design, technology and fuel economy," said Nerad. "Outside, the new Fusion is clearly the hottest-looking car in a class with no fewer than 13 other entrants. The interior is just as striking, and a variety of technological enhancements and choice of five powertrains is just icing on the cake. Whatever mix of value, power and fuel efficiency you're looking for in a midsize sedan, the new Fusion has it."

Drivers who are thinking about purchasing a 2013 Fusion in a few years when they can find a used model can keep their current vehicle on the road by getting regular tuneups and oil changes as well as addressing repairs. The experts at New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center can take care of all these automotive needs and more.

Those who need to trade in their current ride for something newer can also turn to NJ Auto Auction, since the dealer carries a wide selection of used makes and models. Every vehicle on the lot is CARFAX certified, allowing car shoppers to buy with confidence.

Many people travel for the holidays to visit family and friends or take vacations, and the latest projections from AAA indicate the number of those who will be taking to the roads or skies this year has increased compared to the 2011 holiday season. Across the board, AAA estimates there will be approximately 93.3 million people who have end-of-year travel plans, which is 1.6 percent higher than the 91.8 million who traveled last year. The vast majority (90 percent) of these people will be reaching their destination by automobile, and the average excursion is expected to be around 760 miles, round-trip.

"The year-end holiday season remains the least volatile of all travel holidays, as Americans will not let economic conditions of high gas prices dictate if they go home for the holidays or kick off the New Year with a vacation," said Beth Mosher, director of public affairs for AAA Chicago. "Primary economic factors all show modest improvement from last year, and AAA is projecting an increase in the number of Americans stuffing their stockings with airline tickets and hotel reservations."

Those planning to take road trips this month should make sure their cars are in good condition before they hit the road. Everything from checking tire pressure and topping off fluids to getting a routine tune up and addressing repairs should be part of the pre-travel checklist. Drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can bring their cars to NJ State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center, which is open to the public. The automotive experts can handle everything from oil changes to replacements and repairs to ensure travelers reach their destinations safely.