Gas prices are at record highs this week, but there are things UNM students can do to save money on fuel.
According to an AAA New Mexico news release, the state's record for gas prices was set Friday at $1.684 per gallon. The national average is $1.755 per gallon.
Jeannie Chavez of AAA New Mexico said the first step toward saving money on fuel is shopping around.
"You can see different prices driving back and forth everyday," Chavez said.
But some UNM students said the price does not matter.
"I don't like to go out of my way to pay less for gas," said junior Jacques Chartier. "I do drive less when the prices are higher."
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Being careful not to drive over the speed limit, making sure your vehicle is properly maintained and keeping your tires properly inflated also helps save on gas, Chavez said.
And watch out for added weight in your car, she said.
"A box here and a book there can really add unnecessary weight to your car," Chavez said.
She said AAA does not predict price fluctuations because there are numerous factors that contribute to fuel prices.
"Basically there is a high demand and low supply," she said.
Prices are so high because crude oil prices have remained high. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries reduced production of oil on April 1, and the global economy is expanding, causing increased consumption of oil. Chavez added that Venezuela, one of the country's largest distributors, also keeps threatening to cut its supply from the United States.
Another contributor to high fuel prices was the especially cold winter, which reduced availability of fuel and created a higher demand because oil was also needed for heating homes and businesses, Chavez said.
But the demand is usually higher in the spring and summer every year because of additional gas used for traveling, Chavez said.
She said if everyone saved just one gallon of fuel a week the demand would be lower and prices would go down.
"I don't drive that much because of fuel prices," said UNM senior Jennifer Fisher. "I usually just drive to work and school. I also try not to use the heater or air conditioner to save fuel."
Senior Patrick Maloy said he would still drive the same amount even if prices were to go up.
"People are going to complain about the prices, but they still spend their money because they have to get around," Maloy said. "I just pay for it."
