Silver Lake Daily Newsletter.com

The American Automobile Association (AAA):
Gas prices in New York drop slightly

Drivers will see minimal relief at the pump this week as prices have dropped slightly from last week, according to AAA. As of Monday, the national average price for a gallon of gasoline was listed at $4.98, according to AAA. This is a 3 cent decrease from last Monday. This time last year the average price for a gallon of gas in the U.S. was $3.07.

Here in New York State, the average cost for a gallon of gas decreased 3 cents when accounting for rounding from last Monday, bringing the state average to $5.01. This time last year, the average cost of gas in New York was $3.13.

According to AAA, the average cost of a gallon of gas in Buffalo is $4.89, which is down 1 cent from last Monday. In Batavia the average price of gas decreased 3 cents from last Monday to $4.89, while the average cost in Rochester fell 1 cent landing at $4.97.

The slight drop in gas prices is being attributed to a declining demand, according to AAA.

"Crude prices dropped last week amid broad market concern regarding the potential for slower economic growth after the U.S. Federal Reserve raised the interest rate by 0.75 percent. Slower than expected economic growth could cause crude demand to decline, leading to lower oil prices," a release from AAA stated.

While there has also been a slight drop in crude oil prices, AAA reports that those prices will remain volatile, and the price of gas per gallon will likely remain elevated. AAA says drivers can conserve fuel by mapping their routes, avoiding peak traffic times, using cruise control when possible and combining errands into one trip.

AAA also notes that drivers should make sure their vehicle's tire pressure is at the recommended level to achieve the best gas mileage. Drivers should also remove any unnecessary and bulky items from their vehicle because it takes more fuel to accelerate a heavy vehicle.

For more information about how to look up gas prices across the country, or to get more fuel-saving tips from AAA, head to the AAA website.