American Begins Driving Less

Are those gas prices painted on?

Americans were finding that the average price for gasoline last week was above $3.50 $3.77 a gallon, causing many drivers to cut back and begin driving less. To this I say, "YESSSS" - it's about time, start consuming less. Reports say some people have actually started to walk or carpool more often. Others look for areas where gas prices are cheaper before filling up. If the trend for higher gas prices continue eventually people will look for and demand more fuel efficient cars. But you know what, I'm not holding my breath because most Americas will still view this as a "temporary condition".

We have been through this time and time again - and the prices will start to slip back, everyone will rest on their laurels and the we begin the cycle again.

Here are a few gas saving tips - but let me warn you they are from 2006 - deja vu anyone?

1. Drive smart: Aggressive driving (meaning quick acceleration, hard braking and speeding) wastes gas.
2. Choose wisely: Don't assume that neighboring gas stations will have the same prices -- check around.
3. Just park it: Don't circle the lot hoping for a great parking space. Take the shortest route to a free space and walk from there.
4. Get pumped up: Keep your tires properly inflated and aligned to increase gas mileage by up to three percent.
5. Be cool: If you're hot, don't open the windows -- they increase drag and decrease gas mileage, especially at highway speeds. 
6. Go the speed limit: Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional 15 to 20 cents per gallon of gas.
7. Stay in tune: Fixing a car that is out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of about four percent (though your results will vary based on the kind of repair, and how well the job is done).
8. Close the gate: It's an urban myth that driving a pickup truck with the tailgate down will get better mileage by decreasing wind resistance.
9. Re-think your route: Look into lesser-traveled routes where you can travel at a steady pace instead of joining in on rush hour traffic.
10. Figure it out first: Check maps (especially those online) before you go to make sure you know how to get where you're doing.
11. Lighten up: Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your vehicle, especially heavy ones. An extra 100 pounds of weight in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by up to two percent, which adds up over time!