Drivers may feel the pinch the next time they fill up for gas in Tennessee.
According to a new report from AAA, gas prices went up six cents last week, averaging $2.69 a gallon.
The highest prices were listed in Nashville, where gas costs about $2.71. In Clarksville, the average was lower at $2.64.
"Motorists are paying higher-than-normal prices at the pump for this time of year," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA- The Auto Club Group. "Global supply and demand concerns continue to weigh on oil prices, which are dragging gas prices higher as a result. OPEC output remains low and U.S. sanctions are expected to limit exports of Iranian crude. All of this is happening while global demand keeps growing. These fundamentals could keep upward pressure on prices at the pump during a time of year when motorists normally begin to pay less."
AAA recommended a few tips to help fuel savings:
- Drive Sensibly: Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas.
- Observe the speed limit: Not only is it safer – but it can help you save money. Every 5 mph you drive over 50 mph is like paying an additional 19 cents per gallon for gasoline
- Lose the weight: Using your trunk for storage can cost you by way of lower fuel economy. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle reduces your miles per gallon by about 1 percent.
- Use cruise control: Cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed.
- Avoid excess idling: Idling uses a quarter to a half gallon of fuel per hour.
- Combine trips: Saves time and money
- Inflate tires: Keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure can improve your gas mileage up to 3 percent.
Click here to view gas prices across the country.
