The escalating prices at the pump are causing a lot of angst, so I’m going to do that annoying thing that older folks do when someone younger is complaining about a hardship: Tell you that it isn’t as bad as you think.
Back in the day, during the gas shortages and surging gas prices of the 1970s, I remember sitting with my grandmother for hours in a line that snaked around the gas station to fill up the family station wagon. Big Mama could buy gasoline only on odd-numbered days of the month based on the last digit of her license plate. To save money during the gas crisis, my grandmother rarely drove anywhere except to work, the grocery store and church.
Gas prices are hitting new highs. Here’s why — and how long the surge could last.
The invasion of Ukraine, which has led President Biden to ban the import of oil and natural gas from Russia, is contributing to the latest spike in gas prices. It’s tough for a lot of folks living on the financial edge, especially those who use their vehicles to earn a living. Even if you can afford to absorb the increase, paying $6 and some change for a gallon of gas can cause some psychological pain.
People are looking for ways to spend less at the gas pump. No, having your food delivered to avoid a trip to the restaurant doesn’t necessarily save you money when you factor in a service fee, a delivery charge, a possible surge charge and a tip.
West Virginia was the top state searching for “Gasoline” as of midday Thursday, followed by Idaho, Indiana and Alabama, according to Google Trends. People are also searching for answers to how long gas prices are expected to be high and what’s causing the spike.
Why high gas prices may be here to stay
Until prices stabilize and come down, there are some things drivers can do to cut down on what they pay to fill their tanks, said Ellen Edmonds, AAA public relations manager.
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