AAA: Gas Prices Remain Stagnant, Arkansas Drivers Paying 4th Lowest Statewide Average in the Country

The statewide gas price average in Arkansas is $3.81 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Arkansas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is one cent less compared to this day last week and is $1.13 more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Arkansas, drivers in Texarkana are paying the most on average at $3.93 while drivers in Fort Smith are paying the least at $3.70 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.22, which is two cents less compared to this day last week and $1.35 more than the price per gallon at this same time last year, according to AAA Gas Prices.

The Arkansas statewide gas price average has been hovering near $3.82 for 11 consecutive days, down 10 cents from the recent high on March 11th. Crude oil prices have fluctuated over the last month and closed Wednesday at $107 per barrel. Oil prices did respond, Thursday, to recent news from the administration of a potential release of oil from Strategic Petroleum Reserve by falling nearly 4%.

"Until a comprehensive plan is finalized, it remains to be seen how much of an immediate impact a release from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve will have pump prices," said AAA Spokesperson Nick Chabarria. "It's important to remember, crude oil is a global commodity and any attempts to substantially impact pricing would need to be completed on global scale."

Drivers in Arkansas are paying the 4th lowest gas price average in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile, drivers in California are the paying the most at $5.90 on average for a gallon of regular unleaded.

AAA Tips to save money on fuel:

Bad driving isn't just unsafe. It's expensive. Studies have repeatedly shown that personal driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption. Adopting new and improved driving behaviors can contribute to significant savings at the gas pump. Here are some simple ways drivers can improve fuel efficiency:

  • Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
  • Avoid "jackrabbit" starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
  • Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
  • Minimize your use of air conditioning.
  • Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It's unnecessary and wastes fuel.
  • Maintain your car according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
  • Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
  • When driving in town, adjust your speed to "time" the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel.
  • When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.

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