Gas Prices Continue to Rise

With the unrest in Libya, and now the uncertainty of the markets due to the Japanese earthquake, gas prices are hitting near record levels.

The Mid-Atlantic AAA is reporting that for the ZIP code 21012, the average gas price is $3.454. Last month's was $3.095, and six months ago, it was almost a dollar below what we are paying now.

They also report that the average cost to fuel a vehicle with a 15-gallon tank in our area right now is $52.88. Last week, it was $51.81; last month, it was $46.42, and six months ago, it was more than $10 less at $38.67. At this time last year, the fill cost was $41.35.

Here is a rundown on local regular gas prices from Motor Trend as of Thursday.

Sunoco, 1506 Ritchie Hwy., Arnold - $3.489

Exxon, 1501 Ritchie Hwy., Arnold - $3.469

Crown, 68 Old Mill Bottom Rd., Arnold - $3.499

Exxon, 317 Buschs Frontage Rd., Annapolis - $3.479

Wawa, 321 Buschs Frontage Rd., Annapolis - $3.499

Shell, 1318 Cape St. Claire Rd., Annapolis - $3.529

7-11, 730 E. College Parkway, Annapolis - $3.499

Citgo, 158 Old Mill Bottom Rd., Annapolis - $3.539

AAA lists the following ways to save gas:

• Avoid idling when possible;
• Use cruise control when possible and maintain constant speed;
• Avoid carrying more weight (heavier=more gas);
• Don’t brake or accelerate too quickly; and
• Keep tires properly filled.