Gas Prices Down, Are You Driving More?

I guess there are some positives out of this whole economic recession situation that we have found ourselves in the last few months. A few months ago when the price of crude oil was around $120 people were all talking about trying to sell their gas guzzling SUV’s and finding fuel efficient vehicles. But oil prices hit a low of $61 yesterday and consumers across the country have been feeling a little bit of relief at the pump.

When gas prices were ridiculously high over the last few months, everyone was screaming that we must drive less and look for alternative methods of transportation so we do not pay for the high gas prices. However, now that gas prices have dropped significantly, are those people screaming before still preaching for other forms of transportation?

Do you change your driving habits based on the price of gas?

I won’t lie, I feel alot better filling up my tank now for less than $40, however, I really don’t think I am driving more often and taking more trips just because the gas costs less. I definitely made more efforts when gas was so high to carpool and look for shorter routes to my destinations. I even took the train out on the weekends a few times! Many times I answered someones request to come pick them up for an evening out on the town with “Sorry man but we are in a recession!”

So really I am guilty. My habits have changed, as gas prices are cheaper, I will drive more and when gas prices are more expensive, I will drive less. I am my own hypocrite. But I can admit it. What about you? And what about those people screaming earlier this summer? I used to see articles telling people to “Trade in you SUV against oil!”. I doubt we will see anyone writing any articles titled “Oil prices are affordable now, but you should still get rid of that gas guzzler!”.

If anyone finds one please let me know! Be easy people and carpool!