Pretty much everyone is complaining about the high fuel prices right now, but few are actually doing anything about it. It's pretty easy for most people to cut back on what they spend to fuel their vehicles but from what I see out here on the roads every day, in all parts of the country, very few people are actually doing it.
The single biggest impact one can have on their fuel cost, and the easiest one to do, is to simply slow down. The faster one drives the more fuel their vehicle is burning per mile. It's simple physics. Yet, every single day I see people who simply refuse to slow down.
People are so used to driving 10mph or more over the speed limit that they have convinced themselves that they simply can't slow down. That's pure bull. One doesn't need to drive so sllow as to impede traffic, just slow down and drive the speed limit. You'll be amazed at how much money you'll start saving on fuel.
Since fuel prices have shot up I drive the speed limit wherever I am, with the exception of places where the speed limits are 70mph or higher, where I set my cruise control at 65mph. That's fast enough to not impede traffic but still burns less fuel than running 70+. My fuel milage has risen significantly.
If your car has a cruise control use it as much as possible. This will help you maintain a steady speed and will also save lots of fuel.
Accelerate smoothly and gradually. Quick accelerations waste an amazing amount of fuel.
Don't take unnecessary trips. Find things to do closer to home, consolidate your errands, and walk when possible.
I delivered a load in Egg Harbor, NJ yesterday, which is just outside of Atlantic City. Traffic was light going in but was one long back-up coming back out. There were literally thousands of cars streaming out of Atlantic City going home after spending the weekend there. What a huge waste of fuel.
Slow down folks, you'll not only save money but you'll be more relaxed as well as a lot safer. Speed not only kills but it costs a lot of money too.