Commuters feel crunch as gas soars

Gas prices across the nation are soaring. How are the people of the area dealing with this bite into their wallets?

"I've cut about 75 miles off my travel each week," admitted Dan Hamby of Yadkinville.

Statewide, prices are expected to be about $2 a gallon or better, at least for another month, at which time there might be a slight decrease, according to Tom Crosby, the vice president of communications with (American Automotive Association) AAA Carolinas. "There might be some decrease because of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, but we can't be sure."

The current average cost of fuel in the state is $1.955. This time last year, consumers were paying $1.376.

Sidney Patterson of Sparta has to travel 60 to 72 miles one-way to work. "I think the citizens should have better leeway and less prices," he said.

Three things are affecting the increase.

"Supply, demand and the Iraqi war are skewing the price increase," said Crosby. "We're refining it just as quickly as we can get it." Picking up a paper, Carol Stolt of Sparta shook her head when asked about the gas prices.

"I think they're getting ridiculous. I can't afford to go out of town. Last time I filled up, it was $1.92. This is affecting my vacation. This summer, I won't be able to go anywhere."

Doughton Tedder of Pine Swamp said he did not use pay as close attention to the gas prices as he does now that he travels a little bit every day.

"It hasn't affected my travel that much so far. But it does take quite a bit of our savings to buy the extra gas now. Last week, I paid $2.05 a gallon. It's taking approximately $25 to fill up."

Included in the increased gas prices are a state gas tax of 24.7 cents and a federal tax of 18.4 cents., making the total tax per gallon about 43 cents.

"This stinks!," exclaimed John Phipps of High Point. "The government better do something. I don't remember it getting this high (last year) and it's even higher in High Point. I was there Monday and I paid $1.98, and that's just for regular. This is just ridiculous. I'm paying about $20 bucks to fill up. This time last year, I was paying about $10."

With summer vacation underway, Crosby offers some bits of advice on behalf of AAA Carolinas. Make sure your car is in good running shape, with tires properly inflated and a clean air filter.

"You increase your gas consumption by at least 10 percent when you (increase your speed) from 65 to 75 miles per hour. Avoid stop-and-go traffic when possible."

Consumers are reminded to shop around for the best prices and not to use high octane gas "unless your car calls for it."

A survey by AAA indicates that, while some drivers have altered their driving habits in the region, others continue to plan trips and drive large vehicles The survey shows that half of AAA's membership will alter driving habits to save gas.

The survey also discovered that those who have recently purchased sport utility vehicles or pickup trucks through AAA are either buying down-sized SUV's or trucks to maintain a vehicle with extra space or expressed no concern about gas prices.

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