MIAMI VALLEY — Data from AAA shows that today’s national average for a gallon of gas is $3.48, which is almost a dollar more than what drivers paid this time last year.
News Center 7′s Haley Kosik looked into the increase.
In the Miami Valley, gas prices are slightly cheaper, averaging about $3.23, which is 80 cents higher than last year, according to AAA.
>>PUMP PATROL: Find the best gas prices in your neighborhood
At the Shell on Far Hills Avenue and Whipp Road, unleaded gas is going for $3.19 a gallon.
Geo-political events greatly impact gas prices as well, such as the current Ukraine-Russia border crisis, according to AAA.
AAA analysts are predicting the prices will continue to go up.
While drivers can’t ultimately control how much it costs to fill up, there are a few hacks to save a buck.
“We always recommend that you do your shopping, if you have an app, some type of app that’ll help you find the best gas prices, and even if you use those loyalty programs, whether Shell, Kroger, someone, any kind of big box store. Those have loyalty programs that can help you find the best gas prices for you,” said Kara Hitchens, AAA Public Affairs Manager.
To get better gas mileage, AAA recommends that drivers take their cars in for routine maintenance, keep the tires full and take out any heavy items that could be weighing it down.