Ohio Gas Prices Over $4 Per Gallon, Many Say They'll Drive Less

OHIO — Gas prices eclipsed $4 per gallon in Ohio last week and there's no relief in sight.

While the conflict in Ukraine continues, oil prices are likely to climb, driving prices higher at the pump. Nationally, a gallon of gas costs $4.32 on average. In Ohio, gas prices are up to $4.07 per gallon, according to AAA.

Gas prices hit an all-time high in the Buckeye State in May 2011, when the average gallon of gas was $4.16, AAA said. If trends continue, that record could fall as soon as this week.

The majority of Americans now say they will adjust their lifestyle and reduce how much they travel to cut back on gas usage, AAA said. The company recently ran a survey gauging the nation's feelings on current fuel prices. Nearly 60 percent of respondents said they would change their lifestyle if gas prices rose past $4 per gallon. Of those willing to change their habits, 80 percent said they would do so by driving less.

AAA offered the following tips to conserve fuel:

• Stay up-to-date on your car maintenance and keep your tires properly inflated. A run-down car uses more fuel than efficient vehicles.
• Know where you're going before you leave. Familiarize yourself with your route and do your best to avoid getting lost or doubling back. Keep an eye on possible traffic jams.
• If you need to run errands, try to knock out everything on your list in one trip. Avoid multiple trips whenever possible.
• Fuel economy usually peaks at around 50 mph for most cars before dropping off at higher speeds. Going slower on highways can preserve your gas.
• Use express lanes to avoid unnecessary stops.
• Don't use premium gas unless your car requires it.