Fuel Oil Prices: It is Time to Start Walking
With gas prices skyrocketing on a regular basis, it is no wonder that more and more gas stations are replacing the roofs covering their stations. Many hard working commuters are continually hitting the roof every time they fill their tanks. Shelling out around $100.00 for a full tank in most SUV’s and large vehicles is financially destroying many families. Driving, once considered a privilege, has transformed over the past decade into a burden that many are trying to avoid. With many cities containing inadequate public transportation, fuel oil prices are ravishing the general public and leaving them high and dry. Successful businessmen and women are reconsidering their careers as the cost of the commute is not worth the salary it leads to. Despite this financial devastation, there are ways to save money and regain control over the price at the pump.
Consider Carpooling
While carpooling may seem like an inconvenient method of saving money, it is by far the easiest and most convenient way for most people to begin cutting their gas expenses in half. By sharing the responsibilities of driving with a co-worker, cars undergo less wear and tear. A previous $100.00 gas tank fill up can easily become a once a month occurrence, cutting a $200-$300.00 expense in half. Combine those savings with less oil changes and repairs and any where from $2,000-$4,000 dollars is saved annually. The likelihood for accidents is lessened as well by this dual responsibility. The break in commuting keeps drivers fresh and the companionship of another keeps minds alert as well as incidents of road rage down.
Considering a Car versus an SUV
While extra curricular activities may suggest that an SUV is more suitable for one’s lifestyle, considering its overall benefits versus its overall expenses can bring a harsh reality about its presence in the driveway. SUV’s burn more gas due to their bulky nature and with fuel oil prices as high as they are, cars or even hybrids are making a steady comeback. Cars are lighter and run on less gas and with the advent of the hybrid, ethanol and other biofuels are becoming increasingly available and affordable. Convenience comes at a price and if consumers are looking for less pain at the pump, reconsidering the tank they fill is a good place to start.
In less than a decade, fuel oil prices have doubled with no inclination on stopping any time soon. In order to survive in this time of financial hardship, tough choices need to made about how driving is incorporated into every day. This privilege turned burden has turned a simple mode of transportation into a financial and ecological nightmare. Simplify life. Rather than driving to the local ice cream parlor, consider walking or riding a bike. Carpool with friends to work and events and cut out miscellaneous driving. If available, use public transportation. By sacrificing some amenities, society can gain control over how much money their gas tanks devour. Alternative fuel could be another option in the future like cars running on natural gas or hydrogen.
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