Page 13 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – May/June 2022

SAFETY ZONE
Helpful Hints during
Gas Price Increases
AAA began tracking historical gas price data in 2000. In late winter of this year, gas prices had several significant single-day increases with the national average cresting $4 for the first time since 2008. In times like this, it is useful to think of ways to save and get the best gas mileage. AAA has some things to consider and suggestions:
PRICE PREDICTIONS AND FLUCTUATIONS
• AAA cannot predict how high gas prices will go or when. Fluctuations in gas prices truly depend on the price of crude oil.
• Traditionally, gas prices make significant jumps around the switch to summer blends, which occurs in March and April. When the spring and summer travel seasons start to heat up, it can cause prices to significantly fluctuate based on increased demand. AAA expects prices to decline as they normally would after the summer, however, if crude remains high, so will prices at the pump.
FUEL SAVING TIPS
Tires and maintenance
Keep your vehicle in top shape with routine inspections and in between, make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Plan ahead
Map your route before you go to minimize unnecessary turnarounds and backtracking. Avoid peak traffic times. Combine errands and go to “one-stop shops” where you can do multiple tasks (banking, shopping, etc.).
Shutterstock: Joshua Rainey Photography
Watch your speed
Fuel economy peaks at around 50 mph on most cars, then drops off as speeds increase. Reducing highway speeds by 5 to 10 mph can increase fuel economy by as much as 14%.
Avoid excessive idling
A car engine consumes one-quarter to one-half gallon of fuel per hour when idling, but a warm engine only takes around 10 seconds worth of fuel to restart. Where safe to do so, shut off your engine if you will be stopped for more than a minute.
Use “fast pass” or “express” toll lanes
Avoiding unnecessary stops or slowdowns on the highway helps save fuel.
Avoid rush hour
Take advantage of flex work hours to avoid commuting during peak traffic times.
Anticipate road conditions
Watch the traffic ahead and “time” stoplights to maintain momentum and avoid unnecessary stop and go.
Regular vs. Premium
If regular gas is recommended for your vehicle, that’s all you need. Opting for premium when your car doesn’t require it will only cost you money and doesn’t improve fuel economy.
Shop around and save
To find the best gas price in your area, use the AAA Mobile App. AAA Members should enroll in Shell’s Fuel Rewards program to save 30 cents per gallon on their first fill-up and 5 cents per gallon on each additional fill-up.
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