By Jeremy Couch
jeremy@newsroom.byu.edu
The latest report from AAA of Utah shows gas prices are at a record high for the state.
The average unleaded self-serve gas is $1.66/gallon.
That is an increase of 8 cents from August and is up 26 cents from last year, according to the report.
'Usually this time of year prices are falling, but they are currently higher than ever,' said Rolayne Fairclough, spokesperson for AAA of Utah.
Because of the strong economy during the summer, travel did not decline despite high gas prices. Now, because of continued high prices, motorists are starting to bet concerned, Fairclough said.
Motorists are not the only people worried about prices. Local gas stations' business is decreasing because of the high prices.
'We have been seeing quite a few negative effects, mostly a decrease in fuel sales because people are not driving as much,' said Bob Childs, regional director for the Utah Maverik Country Stores.
As students see the prices crawling up, some are considering other forms of transportation.
'I cannot go home as much to visit my family, because it costs too much. I am really starting to think of possibly riding the bus or carpooling,' said Krystal Perry, 23, of Draper, Utah, majoring in humanities and French teaching.
Oil industry analysts say the surge in gas prices could be caused by high crude prices, Middle East tensions and low gas inventories, Fairclough said.
The AAA is taking many measures to inform motorists of ways to improve fuel economy.
AAA of Utah is recommending motorists make certain their vehicles are in peak operating condition to achieve maximum fuel economy, Fairclough said.
'We also track gas prices for motorists, which are available on our Web site,' Fairclough said.
Tips to help viewers save fuel and money can be found on the AAA produced Web site 'The Gas Watcher's Guide' available on the Web at www.csaa.com.