AAA: Texas gas prices break new records, keep climbing

The average gas price in Texas set a new record overnight, standing at $4.34 per gallon of regular unleaded according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch.

That's eight cents more than Thursday last week and $1.63 more per gallon than this day last year.

Drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $4.54 per gallon while those in Lubbock are paying the least at $4.16.

The average Houston price today was $4.31.

Lone Star motorists are paying the ninth lowest average gas price in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile drivers in California are paying the most at $6.21 on average.

The national average for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.71, the highest ever recorded by AAA and 11 cents more than this day last week. It's $1.67 more than at this same time last year.

The spike is primarily driven by the oil market worried that supplies may become tighter as COVID lockdowns ease in China and the European Union's phase-in of a ban on most Russian oil products.

Reports that Saudi Arabia may be prepared to increase oil production to make up for the Russian oil loss may hold some hope for keeping price increases in check.

Still, AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster said, "Prices will likely continue to fluctuate with relief likely not coming until after the busy summer travel season concludes."

Texans planning a road trip this summer can use the AAA Gas Cost Calculator to estimate their fuel cost.

AAA Tips to save money on fuel:

• 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.
• Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
• 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. Discount Tire, for example, offers free air checks at their shops.
• 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.