Auto Club: Gas Prices Drop For First Time Since Iran Conflict Began

Gas prices posted weekly declines both locally and nationally for the first time since the Middle East conflict began on Feb. 28, according to the Auto Club's Weekend Gas Watch. Today's statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $5.86, down six cents from last week and $1 higher than at this time last year. The national average dopped by seven cents in a week to $4.09, which is 93 cents higher than on this date last year.

The average price of self-serve regular gasoline in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area is $5.96 per gallon, seven cents lower than last week and $1.11 higher than a year ago. In San Diego, the average price is $5.88 - seven cents lower than last week and $1.06 higher than this time last year.

On the Central Coast, the average price is $5.76, down five cents from last week and $1.02 higher than a year ago. In Riverside, the average price per gallon is $5.79, eight cents lower than last week and $1.08 higher than a year ago. In Bakersfield, the $5.84 average is four cents lower than last week and $1.10 higher than one year ago.

"Today, the least expensive gas stations in Southern California are charging less than $5.20 a gallon," said Auto Club spokesperson Kandace Redd. "If oil prices drop further and supplies in California are stable, we could see pump prices continue to decline."

The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on April 16, averages are:

The Auto Club recommends these tips for drivers to save money on fuel:

• Optimize your fuel economy with steady speeds, no hard braking, and no "jackrabbit starts."
• Don't haul extra weight in the passenger compartment or trunk, which reduces fuel economy.
• Properly maintain your vehicle and keep tires properly inflated according to the pressure listed in your owner's manual, which will optimize fuel economy.
• Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle, and don't use mid-grade or premium unless it is specifically recommended in your owner's manual. AAA research shows the higher-grade fuel offers no extra benefit for vehicles that aren't required to use it.
• Look into discounts. AAA members who sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards Program at AAA.com/Shell can save 30 cents a gallon on their first fill-up, and five cents a gallon on all other fill-ups. Other retailers such as grocery stores also offer fuel discount programs, and some credit cards offer gas discounts.
• If your household has more than one vehicle, use the most fuel-efficient one as much as possible.
• Consolidate errands to reduce mileage and avoid driving during peak hours when traffic congestion will reduce your fuel efficiency.