Common sense driving techniques are always a smart way to save on gas. With continuing high gasoline prices, it pays even more to be a smart operator. Here are some tips:
* Fill up with regular gas. If you are using premium and you don't have to, you'll save money and fuel with lower octane.
* Be a smooth driver. Your passengers will enjoy the ride more and you'll use less gas. If you floor it to get away from a stop sign and have to brake hard at the next one, you'll pay a big price in lost mileage.
* Did you know? You can get more for your money if you buy gas early in the morning. Gas is denser when it's cold, so you get a little more per gallon, say the experts writing in Business Week.
* Check your tires. Underinflated tires increase drag. It takes more energy to move a car with soft tires. Not only that, but your tires will last longer if they are properly inflated. Check your tires in the morning for the most accurate reading.
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.
