In recent months, gas prices have become a serious financial concern for many people across the United States and worldwide. The higher price of fuel has impacted individuals who rely upon their cars and businesses that utilize commercial fleets.
According to AAA, the average price of regular unleaded fuel in the Clarksville-Hopkinsville metro area was $4.33 as of July 5, 2022. The average price of diesel in the same area was $5.45. 
Strategies for Saving on Gas
Given the financial burden that rising gas prices can put on a family or company, it’s imperative to consider various strategies for saving on your fuel costs. Consider the following steps:
- Clean and unload—Vehicles carrying extra weight will burn fuel faster. Taking time to remove unnecessary cargo or unneeded equipment can help your gas money go further.
- Let the engine warm up—It’s essential to let a vehicle’s engine warm up properly. Driving while an engine is cold will burn fuel more quickly.
- Know when to idle—Many new vehicles use engines that automatically stop when cars are idling, such as at red lights. However, older vehicles may not be equipped for frequent starting and stopping. Know your engine and idle appropriately.
- Take your time—How you drive greatly impacts how quickly your engine uses gas. Accelerating and braking gently and gradually are not only helpful for fuel efficiency but also safer.
- Keep engines in good condition—Although vehicle maintenance may seem inconvenient or expensive, these investments can lead to significant fuel cost savings. Fixing a serious issue—such as a faulty oxygen sensor—can improve mileage by up to 40%.
- Check tires—The pressure and condition of your tires must be regularly checked for fuel efficiency and safety reasons. Make sure the PSI of your vehicle’s tires is in the recommended range.
- Reduce temperature control—While heating and air conditioning systems can help you stay comfortable while driving, they also may impact gas usage. Consider rolling down the windows or adding an extra layer of clothing to combat the elements.
- Know your vehicle—Vehicle owners must be aware of manufacturer specifications, such as which motor oil grade should be used.
- Research future purchases—For businesses and individuals looking to purchase new vehicles, it’s necessary to consider the EPA rating of potential purchases. Investing in vehicles with higher EPA ratings can pay off in the long run.
- Consider alternate transportation—Walking, cycling, using public transportation or organizing carpools can be environmentally friendly and reduce your fuel expenses. Businesses may want to reassess delivery or shipment patterns to reduce how many trips are necessary.
Optimize Your Fuel Consumption
Gasoline prices are causing financial stress for many people. Fortunately, it’s possible to lessen this burden by analyzing vehicles, reassessing conditions and reconsidering driving habits.
Contact the agents at Augustine Insurance to learn more about road safety and optimal vehicle operations as well as auto insurance.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.