Ohio gas prices up 80 cents over last year

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(The Center Square) – Gas prices in Ohio are up 79 cents a gallon from this time a year ago, according to the American Automobile Association

The current average for a gallon of gas in Ohio on Tuesday was $3.86 a gallon, a jump from $3.07 a gallon this time a year ago, according to AAA, as war in the Middle East has caused market oil prices to soar.

“Volatility along the Strait of Hormuz and instability in the region have pushed crude oil prices into the $90 per barrel range and could continue driving up costs during the second half of summer,” AAA said.

But Ohioan motorists are still better off than drivers in other states.

The national average for a gallon of regular gas now stands at $4.09 per gallon, rising 15 cents in the last week. A year ago, the national average was $3.16.

“What drivers pay at the pump is still closely tied to crude oil prices,” AAA spokesman Montrae Waiters said in a statement Tuesday. “As uncertainty in global energy markets persists, drivers should be prepared for continued price fluctuations and the possibility of higher pump prices in the weeks ahead.”

AAA recommends drivers shop around for the best gas prices, pay cash for gas at locations where retailers charge more for credit card payments, enroll in fuel-savings programs, maintain vehicle for the best fuel economy and drive slower.

“Fuel economy diminishes significantly at highway speeds above 50 mph,” AAA said. “Drive conservatively and avoid aggressive driving. Aggressive acceleration and speeding can reduce fuel economy.