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National average gas price reaches $5 a gallon, GasBuddy says

The average gas price in North Carolina, however, still remains below the national average.

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For the first time, the average price of gas in the United States passed $5 a gallon, according to GasBuddy.

Throughout March and April, gas prices have set record highs, and they have been inching upward, passing levels not seen since the 2008 recession.

“It’s been one kink after another this year, and worst of all, demand doesn’t seem to be responding to the surge in gas prices, meaning there is a high probability that prices could go even higher in the weeks ahead,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “It’s a perfect storm of factors, all aligning to create a rare environment of rapid price hikes."

The average gas price in North Carolina, however, still remains below the national average. Gas in Raleigh is, on average, $4.67 a gallon, and across the state a gallon on average will cost you $4.65, according to GasBuddy.

The higher gas prices are causing some drivers to change their habits. Gas consumption is down by more than 2% in the East Coast region.

Read up on ways to save gas and check out these other tips from AAA:
  • Combine errands to limit driving time.
  • Shop around for the best gas prices in your community.
  • Pay with cash. Some retailers charge extra per gallon for customers who pay with a credit card.
  • Remove excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds taken out of the vehicle improves fuel economy by 1-2 percent.
  • Drive conservatively. Aggressive acceleration and speeding reduces fuel economy.
North Carolina Democrats are pushing for a $200 gas tax refund, which would be mailed to N.C. drivers in the form of a check or debit card.

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