SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – The cost of gas continues to set record highs around the country. Today’s national average is up to $4.17 per gallon, up 10 cents since yesterday, according to AAA. $4.17 is the highest national average on record.
Costs are even higher in Syracuse, sitting at $4.33 per gallon. The price is up 10 cents from yesterday and has gone up more than 50 cents over the course of the past week. Central New York consumers have gone as far as holding off on buying gas, hoping that those prices will eventually fall.
“I would say that I’m a little caught off guard by how high [the prices] have gotten in the last week or so,” said Syracuse University student John Dales, “I haven’t filled up my tank yet, I’m kind of hoping that maybe things get a little bit better within the next week. It seems like it’s gotten a little out of control.”
The worst could still be yet to come. With President Biden banning Russian oil imports today, prices could rise even more. Crude oil costs have continued to soar, demand is up, and stocks are down, which all combine to lead to the record pump prices seen recently, according to AAA.
Naturally, consumers are looking for ways to save money as costs continue to increase. Elizabeth Carey of AAA Western and Central New York said that even though prices are sky-high, there still are some ways drivers can save money.
“Now is the time to be a smart consumer,” Carey said, “Use any discounts that you can get like big-box retailers, grocery store discounts, sometimes it’s a matter of just going around the corner to find a cheaper price.”
AAA also said that in order to conserve fuel, motorists should plan routes ahead of time, avoid peak traffic times like rush hour, and combine errands into one trip. Drivers should also make sure tire pressure is at the vehicle’s recommended level to optimize fuel mileage and remove any unnecessary and bulky items to allow the car to accelerate easier.
