SPOKANE, Wash. — Gas prices have skyrocketed across the United States, with the national average reaching $4.30 per gallon — a nearly 30-cent increase in just one week, according to AAA.
The Inland Northwest faces some of the steepest prices. Idaho drivers pay an average of $4.41 per gallon, while Washington state broke records with gas averaging $5.57 per gallon, the third highest in the nation.
“My $20 in the past used to stretch out for like a whole week, but now I constantly have to be at the gas station,” said Motty Omot, a local driver.
Transportation experts say drivers can reduce fuel costs through simple changes. Reducing highway speeds by 10 miles per hour can improve fuel efficiency by up to 8 miles per gallon, according to Consumer Reports. Using cruise control also helps maintain consistent speeds and improves fuel economy.
Vehicle maintenance matters too. Removing excess weight improves efficiency — every 50 pounds of added weight reduces fuel consumption by 1 percent. About 17 percent of vehicles have damaged or missing gas caps, which can reduce fuel efficiency by 2 miles per gallon.
For maximum savings, public transportation offers an alternative. The American Public Transportation Association reports that people who switch from daily driving to public transit can save an average of $1,100 per month. Spokane offers more than 1,700 bus stops throughout the city.
Gas prices have remained volatile throughout the year, but these fuel-saving strategies can help drivers keep more money in their pockets during elevated costs.
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