Florida Gas Prices Rose 19 Cents Last Week

Florida drivers saw a sharp spike in gas prices last week as oil markets reacted to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and strong summer fuel demand. The state average jumped 19 cents per gallon early in the week before easing slightly through the weekend. Friday's average price of $3.96 per gallon was the highest daily average since early June.

"Geopolitical tensions can create volatility in energy markets, and that's exactly what drivers saw last week," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. "While prices eased slightly by the weekend, motorists are still paying significantly more than they were just a month ago. Drivers should expect prices to remain sensitive to developments overseas and fluctuations in the oil market."

Sunday's state average of $3.94 per gallon is:

• 12 cents more than a week ago
• 26 cents more than a month ago
• 84 cents more than last year

U.S. crude oil prices have surged nearly 20% over the past two weeks, including a 16% increase last week alone. Oil settled at $82.49 per barrel on Friday, up from $71.41 per barrel a week earlier.

Visit GasPrices.AAA.com to view state and local average gas prices

Regional Prices

• Most expensive metro markets – West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($4.10), Fort Lauderdale ($4.00), Naples ($4.00)
• Least expensive metro markets – Panama City ($3.70), Pensacola ($3.74), Crestview-Fort Walton Beach ($3.76)

How to Conserve Gasoline

1. Combine errands to limit driving time.
2. Drive conservatively. Avoid aggressive acceleration and speeding. This reduces fuel economy.
3. Remove excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds can lower fuel economy by 1-2 percent.
4. Shop around for the best gas prices in your community by using the AAA mobile app.
5. Pay with cash. Some retailers charge more per gallon for customers who pay with a credit card.

AAA Resources for Drivers

• Find the lowest gas prices in your area by using the free AAA mobile app.
• Determine fuel costs for your trip by using the AAA's Gas Cost Calculator.
• Enroll in savings programs. AAA Members who enroll in Shell's Fuel Rewards program can save 30 cents per gallon on their first fill-up and 5 cents per gallon on each additional trip to the pump. Click here for more information.
• Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained to optimize its fuel economy. Visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to find a certified repair shop.

Gas Price Survey Methodology

AAA updates fuel price averages daily at www.GasPrices.AAA.com. Every day up to 130,000 stations are surveyed based on credit card swipes and direct feeds in cooperation with the Oil Price Information Service (OPIS) and Wright Express for unmatched statistical reliability. All average retail prices in this report are for a gallon of regular, unleaded gasoline.Enter text here