AAA Texas: Statewide Average gas price falls four cents as demand concerns cause crude oil prices to fluctuate

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The statewide gas price average in Texas is $3.96 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is four cents less than from this day last week and is $1.32 more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $4.16 per gallon while drivers in Amarillo are paying the least at $3.67 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.29, which is three cents less when compared to this day last week and $1.41 more than the price per gallon at this same time last year.

Drivers across the Lone Star State are finally seeing a pause in spiking pump prices, at least for now. The statewide gas price average jumped to a record-high on March 11th at $4.01 due to crude oil prices rising as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues. Volatility in the gas and oil market is expected to continue until the global oil market figures out how to balance the loss of Russian energy. While crude oil prices have been falling over the past few days, as of this morning they are spiking back up due to global supply concerns.

“Crude prices remain volatile as uncertainty lingers over the loss of Russian crude oil and rising concerns about global supply,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Traditionally, gas prices increase around the switch to summer blends, which occurs in March and April. The spring and summer travel seasons are also heating up, which can cause prices to 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.”

AAA Tips to save money on fuel:

• Bad driving isn’t just unsafe. It’s expensive. Studies have repeatedly shown that personal driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption. Adopting new and improved driving behaviors can contribute to significant savings at the gas pump. Here are some simple ways drivers can improve fuel efficiency:

• Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.

• Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.

• Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.

• Minimize your use of air conditioning.

• Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.

Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.

• Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.

• Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.

• When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel. Discount Tire, for example, offers free air checks at their shops.

• When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.

• Drivers in Texas are paying the 9th lowest gas price average in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile drivers in California are paying the most at $5.78 on average for a gallon over regular unleaded.