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AAA Expects Springtime Peak for Gas Prices in April

Gas Prices
hand at gas pump

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA, (April 2, 2014) - AAA has forecast the national average price of gas will peak in April at $3.55-$3.75 per gallon, yet the recent slowdown in price increases suggests the average may not even surpass $3.65 per gallon. AAA expects that the national average will remain less expensive than last year’s peak of $3.79 per gallon.

“Peak gas prices for the spring are likely in sight, but there is a good chance that it will cost a little more at the pumps over the next few weeks,” said Georjeane Blumling, spokesperson for AAA Tidewater. “People are likely to drive more as the weather warms, and refinery production will need to keep pace with demand.”

Various factors could push gas prices higher in the near term. Gasoline supplies have shrunk recently due to continued refinery maintenance, the switchover to summer-blend gasoline and an increase in demand. AAA expects that demand will continue to increase as the weather grows warmer and driving increases.

Despite an increase in demand, most refineries will have completed maintenance by the end of April, which should allow gasoline supplies to build in advance of the summer driving season. Unexpected developments, such as major refinery problems or geopolitical concerns could result in higher than predicted prices.

Fuel Savings Tips

AAA offers the following fuel savings tips for people frustrated with high gas prices:

  1. Accelerate gradually. Avoid jackrabbit starts.
  2. Anticipate your stops. When approaching a red light, let your foot off the gas as early as possible.
  3. Avoid long warm-ups in the morning. They’re unnecessary and waste fuel.
  4. Use air conditioning at cruising speeds. Today’s air conditioners create less drag on the engine than driving with the windows open.
  5. Maintain recommended tire pressure. Low pressure reduces fuel economy and can damage tires.
  6. Combine errands. If possible, park in a central spot and walk from place to place.
  7. Slow down. If you travel at 60 mph instead of 70 mph on your 20-mile highway commute, you could save about 1.3 gallons of gas in a five-day work week.
  8. Don’t use your trunk for storage. The heavier your car, the more fuel it uses.
  9. Consider using a more fuel efficient vehicle, especially for longer trips.
  10. Shop around for the best gas price. Gas prices can vary tremendously, which means it can pay to use the AAA mobile app to find the cheapest gas station near you.

As part of North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA Tidewater Virginia provides its more than 325,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding AAA Tidewater Virginia has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.  For more information, visit AAA.com and follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/AAATidewaterVA or on Facebook at facebook.com/AAATidewaterVirginia

CST 1016202-80 Copyright © Tidewater Automobile Association of Virginia, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.
AAA Tidewater Virginia is a member club affiliated with the American Automobile Association (AAA) national federation and serves members in the Tidewater Virginia region (All Hampton Roads cities, including Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg; Virginia's Eastern Shore; as well as the following counties: Greensville, Surry, Brunswick, Isle of Wight, Gloucester, Lancaster, Middlesex, Richmond County, Southampton, Sussex, Mecklenburg, James City County, York, Lunenburg, Essex, King & Queen, Mathews, Northumberland, and Westmoreland).