How to save gas: Turn off your car and skip the drive-thru, experts say

Gas prices are dropping slightly.

Still, the prices are more than drivers are used to. Experts have some tips to save gas -- among them, stop idling.

AAA recommends drivers turn off their cars if they will be stopped for more than 60 seconds and if it is safe to do so, which could include waiting at a stoplight, in a carpool line or at a drive-thru. Many newer cars have automatic engine stop-start systems that turn off after a minute.

Fuel Tracker: Where to find gas in your area

For every 15 minutes of idling, you can burn a quarter gallon of gas, AAA said, but a warm engine only takes around 10 seconds worth of fuel to restart. If you're sitting in the carpool for 30 minutes, that's a half a gallon.

Instead of waiting at a drive-thru, park and go inside the restaurant to order, experts recommend.

As gas prices increase, Duke professor warns of potential recession

Finally, while it may be tempting to warm up the car when it's cold, resist the urge. To save fuel, start the engine and then drive the car normally to warm the engine to operating temperature more rapidly.

Rising gas prices could cost commuters hundreds more annually

In addition to burning gas, leaving your car running welcomes thieves. It is also illegal in North Carolina to leave a car running unattended.

Other gas conservation tips from the pros include carpooling, removing excess weight from your vehicle, ensuring its tires are properly maintained, following the speed limit and avoiding aggressive driving, like accelerating and stopping quickly.

Some choosing to work from home as gas prices soar over $4