Rising fuel costs hit wallets

Gas prices have been on the rise for the past several months but they reached a two month high last week with a 17 cent increase per gallon.

According to AAA Auto Club, gas prices rose 32 cent per gallon in the past two weeks which is unusual for January, but global fundamentals have kept upward pressure on prices at the pump. With China reopening their economy, oil investors are vehement that the prices will continue to rise as China is the world’s largest oil importer.

Local gas prices in both Holmes and Washington Counties range from $3.27 to $3.39 for regular unleaded gasoline. These are lower than some of the more metropolitan areas of the state. In West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, prices range around $3.74 with the least expensive metropolitan area of Panama City which sits at $3.31 per gallon.

There are ways to save some hard earned money at the gas pump. Motorists can limit their driving time by combining errands and running around. Unnecessary weight may also be removed from the vehicle. Fuel efficiency improves by one to two percent for every 100 pounds removed. Shop around for the best prices in the area and pay with cash, as most retailers charge extra for use of a credit card. Safe driving is another way to save on fuel costs. By driving the speed limit and not driving aggressively, fuel economy increases.

With no end in sight for the rising fuel costs, drivers can check daily gas averages at gasprices.aaa.com.