Many Americans are cutting back on everyday expenses as gas prices soar due to President Donald Trump’s war in Iran, now approaching the 10-week mark. About 44 percent of Americans said they’re driving less due to high gas prices, while 42 percent said they’ve slashed household expenses, according to a Washington Post/ABC News/Ipsos poll. In addition, the poll revealed that 34 percent have altered travel or vacation plans. Americans are changing their behaviors as national average gas prices hit $4.43 per gallon Saturday, according to the AAA motor club. This time last year, the national average was just $3.15 per gallon. Patrick de Haan, a petroleum analyst for GasBuddy, said Saturday’s average price marked a sobering new record. “The national average price of gasoline has never been higher on the second day in May than it is today,” he wrote on X.
Sure they can. But they won’t.
I have seen the data: they tend not to group going to work with other errands, they tend not to car pool or even try other forms of commuting.
In fairness, many companies forced workers to go back to offices so there is a lot of bullshit from money keeping them this way, which stops people from setting up social events locally or having the time (or energy) to do shopping after work.
Most people drive a couple of times a day (!) trips less than 6 miles long, and of those errands, shopping, kids and church are 76% of all miles traveled.
Also, there is no reason not to change, lots of US cities and groups are trying to redefine what cities and suburbs look like. But will the populace change?
How many of those trips in a car are to the gym?
None, I can’t afford the gym in this economy.