High gas prices no longer fueling a decline in driving

High gas prices no longer fueling a decline in driving

Americans have grown significantly less likely to change their driving habits or lifestyle to offset gas prices, according to a new survey by the American Automobile Association (AAA). Only half of U.S. adults are doing something to offset gas prices about 15 percent less than a year ago.

–Less expensive gasoline may encourage people to drive more and worry less about the financial burden of filling up their tanks,” said Bob Darbelnet, president and CEO of AAA.

Gasoline demand increased 1.1 percent in 2013, the largest annual increase since 2006, according to the Energy Information Administration.

For the 53 percent of Americans who say they are changing their driving habits or lifestyle to offset gas prices, the most common measures are combining errands or trips (85 percent), driving less (84 percent), reducing shopping or dining out, delaying major purchases, and driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle (49 percent).