Talk of the Town

By Chris

August 16, 2005 08:01 AM | Link to this

I drive an Altima and the last time I filled up, it cost me $41.17! I live inside the Perimeter and now I rarely drive OTP to see friends, shop, go the lake, etc. It is just too expensive.

By jamie k.

August 16, 2005 08:02 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 Saturn Vue. It USED to cost me about 16 bucks to fill my tank. We filled it Saturday for 32. My fiance has a Dodge Dakota 4x4 and it costs him over 50 to fill up now. We have decided to start taking the motorcycle into work on the days I don’t have school at night. That should save us about $50 a week. We typically fill up each, once a week.

By twin79

August 16, 2005 08:04 AM | Link to this

1999 Honda Accord

2 or 3 times a week

I can’t afford to make changes - I live in Lithonia and work in Alpharetta just driving straight home and to work is killing me.

By Luis

August 16, 2005 08:06 AM | Link to this

I have a 04 Accord and I have to fill up once a week to get to work and back, and my wife drives a Toyota sequoia a short distance to work daily. The gas prices are most definately changing my driving habits. I am considering buying a hybrid car for my commute to and from Atlanta everyday.

By Sheila Ross

August 16, 2005 08:09 AM | Link to this

-1998 Camry 4 cylinder -$39.00 -I fill up once a week -Yes, I had already made driving changes months ago. I no longer drive long distances to go to church. Instead, I’m seeking a church in my community. Also, I cut way back on random errands. I now plan those trips out by combining them more.

By Deborah Lee

August 16, 2005 08:09 AM | Link to this

I drive a Ford Taurus. I spent 35 dollars to fill up the tank. It will now last me a month. I quit my job because it was too expensive to commute. I now work at home.

By Scott

August 16, 2005 08:16 AM | Link to this

If you haven’t noticed the price at the pump lately then wake up and smell the gasoline…Gas prices are the most expensive I’ve ever witnessed in my lifetime. I’ve now become a regular MARTA rider…and you know what? Riding MARTA is the way to go. Too bad the North Fulton and Cobb commuters don’t have that option.

By Fred Dwight

August 16, 2005 08:21 AM | Link to this

The Tahoe is killing me! I need to economize. Looking at hybrids now.

By J walker

August 16, 2005 08:22 AM | Link to this

I drive a 1998 Mazda 626 and gas is costing me more a month than my car insurance. I put $22.00 in my tank yesterday at a price of $2.59 a gallon I had very little over a half a tank of gas. I travel on average 60 miles per day driving ONLY too and from work, therefore i am filling my gas tank up twice a week….Gas is costing me about $175 a Month…which is my electric, cell, and cable bill combined..My life has definately changed…I have no social life because I refuse to drive anywhere…sheesh! when does it end….I WISH I worked from home

By Brandi

August 16, 2005 08:22 AM | Link to this

I drive a 99 Jeep Cherokee Sport. At one time, I could fill up for $15. I try to fill up when I reach a 1/4 of a tank. I fill up on weekends. On Sunday, it cost me $33; if I was filling up on empty, it’d be around $44. What I’m paying in gas each month, is roughly a CAR PAYMENT! I no longer leave the house after I get home from work & I rarely will drive anywhere on weekends, except for the grocery store & gas station. My husband works closer to home & will drive us out to eat or to a movie, but even that is happening less frequently now.

By Holley

August 16, 2005 08:22 AM | Link to this

I drive a 98 Ford Escort. When I first bought the car it took $8 to fill it up, last week it took $23. I live in Lilburn and commute to Emory for work. Unfortunately, that is all I can do these days, work. I am unable to visit friends (some with new babies) or family.

By Geneva M.

August 16, 2005 08:24 AM | Link to this

I have a 98 Acura 2.3 CL and I just filled up my car Sunday night for work on Monday it cost me 33.25 to filled up my car. If I have to go pick up my child from school I will have to put gas in my car again for work on Thursday and Firday. I live in Riverdale and work in Buckhead, my child attends school in Mcdonough Ga this is really getting expensive for me.

By Mike

August 16, 2005 08:24 AM | Link to this

1999 Subaru Cost about $25.00 to fill up. Both my wife and I have changed our driving habits. She now rides to work with a co-worker and I now ride my Harley to work. If we all rode motorcycles there would be no fuel issues.

By BlakPurl

August 16, 2005 08:25 AM | Link to this

I drive a ‘97 Ford Taurus. Today was my first day on the train. I no longer can afford to drive from the southside into downtown every day.

It took $38 to fill up…and that was at the QT!!

By Mark

August 16, 2005 08:25 AM | Link to this

45 bucks for a tank the other day last year was like $22.00 per tank I think.Its one thing for gas prices to go up but another for such drastic increases in a short time like this.Its a shame these oil rich countries are stepping on our face while we lose our great men and women to war in their part of the country. I think President Bush could do more, he and his staff. Again everything goes up in price but this is a scam. Yeah I’m for sure least likely to go here go there right now. Why can’t we get the oil in Iraq for cheap…its crazy! Mark, Atlanta

By j.rogers

August 16, 2005 08:26 AM | Link to this

I drive a full size 4x4 pick up and my wife drives a Blazer. We are now spending around $2,000 more per year in gas (if prices stay where thay are). But, honestly, I’m a little more miffed about the $20,000 the government confiscated from our income last year. Where’s that outrage?!

By JHEAD

August 16, 2005 08:26 AM | Link to this

I USUALLY TRAVEL A LOT THIS TIME OF YEAR IN MY MOTOR HOME ( 6 MPG ). I HAVE NOT USED IT SINCE FIRST OF JULY. FUEL PRICES HAVE GOT TO AFFECT TOURISM IN A MAJOR WAY. WE DRIVE TWO TOYOTA SEQUOIAS ( 12 MPG ). ONLY WAY I WILL TRADE DOWN IS IF PRICES GET ASTRONOMICAL.

By Robin

August 16, 2005 08:28 AM | Link to this

I drive a Jeep Liberty and my husband drives a Chevy Avalanche. It takes me $40 to fill up and close to $70 for him. I fill up at least once a week, lucky for us it takes him two weeks to go through a tank. We’ve started carpooling on as many days as possible, pooling all errands together and staying at home more on the weekends to try and conserve as much gas, and money, as possible.

By Jen

August 16, 2005 08:29 AM | Link to this

I have a Pontiac G6. I have to fill up 2 times a week now. This morning (running late) I put $20 in the tank and got just under a half a tank. I live in Lilburn and my family lives in Cumming and Gainesville - I do not go there very much any more. Soon I will not be able to afford the drive from Lilburn to Alpharetta to work. If we were to boycott gas, just for a day, would that make a difference? It is absolutely ludicrous. It is a ‘privilege’ to drive…A necessity to work…A near necessity for most to commute…what are we supposed to do when we need to work but cannot afford to drive there? Public transport is near to non-existent (unless you live in the perimeter)? How does any of this make sense and how do we change it?

By S. Johnson

August 16, 2005 08:31 AM | Link to this

My husband and I have a Mountaineer which costs us a little more than $42/wk and a Camry (V4) which costs about $30/wk. The gas is way to high. I will be parking and taking Marta starting next month. We no longer take long outings and hardly ever go inside 285.

By Kathie Blount

August 16, 2005 08:34 AM | Link to this

I drive a Mercury Sable. The last time I filled up it cost me $47.00!!!! I have to fill up once a week, and that’s if I only go from home to work and back. I’ve had to stop going anywhere else. I work a low-paying job in Athens. Gas prices are making my life very difficult. My family is having to do without some things.

By Kali

August 16, 2005 08:35 AM | Link to this

I live in Charlotte, NC. I drive a Hyundai Elantra and it costs me to $26 to fill up. It would cost more if I decided to go anywhere besides work. As far as trading down, how do you downsize from a Hyundai? This is ridiculous.

By mio

August 16, 2005 08:36 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2002 Mazda Protege. I paid $29.50 the last time I filled up, which was Sunday a week ago. I have definitely changed my driving habits over the past couple of months. I brown-bag lunch now and stay at the office. This cut down my fill-ups from every week to every week and a half to 2 weeks. We stay home as a family in the evenings, too. All the changes have been quite positive as we are saving more money what with the less frequent fill-ups and brown-bagging lunches, and we are doing better as a family since we stay together at home in the evenings.

By Kisha

August 16, 2005 08:37 AM | Link to this

I drive a Chevy Impala. I have to fill up every Friday. It usually costs me $35-$40. Because of this, I only go to work (midtown) and home (decatur). If I go out, someone else is driving or I don’t go out at all.

By jayfrisco

August 16, 2005 08:39 AM | Link to this

I drive a 04 dodge durango. The last time I filled up it was between 44-50 dollars but that was when gas was a little bit less. Depending on the errands I have to run I may fill up twice in a week but it’s usually once a week. That is only if I go to work and come home without any other trips. I have been driving under 70mph and not going anywhere that I don’t necessarily have to go to keep the strain off my pocket. I am now considering public transportation even though my commute is not far but filling up a v8 engine has made me rethink the CCT idea.

By Paul

August 16, 2005 08:43 AM | Link to this

I drive a ‘99 Ford Ranger and the wife drives a ‘98 Saturn. It cost me $46 last week to fill up my truck. I start back to school next week and am losing my truck to my wife because of the commute to school for me. I’m really going to miss my truck. I would love to get a hybrid or a motorcycle, but no capital. Also, Cobb does have buses, but it takes me 1hr and 20 min to ride the bus to work when I can drive and it take me only 15-20.

By Bean

August 16, 2005 08:48 AM | Link to this

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer ES Right now it costs me 23$ to fill up my tank, and i fill up once every week. Last year it cost 12$ only! After reading what other people are paying, i gotta tell you I LOVE MY CAR!!!!!

By Nate

August 16, 2005 08:48 AM | Link to this

I drive an ‘04 Chevy Trailblazer…luckily i work 10 minutes from my house in Conyers so I am only spending about 55.00 a week in gas now as compared to last month when I was working in Alpharetta where I was spending 150.00 a week in gas…I sure do miss the gas prices under Clinton’s administration…

By Carmen G

August 16, 2005 08:51 AM | Link to this

I drive a Cheverolet Suburban. I drive ten miles to work and do various errands. I also have three teenagers. I used to pay $65 to fill up and I’d fill up ever other week. I now pay over $85 to fill up. The rule now is that the car never goes beyond half full. That’s our empty. That way we only pay 1/2 the price instead of dropping the whole $85 or more.

By Ken

August 16, 2005 08:52 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 BMW 530i; I am getting about 21 MPG in town and 35+ hwy; the last time I filled up it cost me $38.00 but fortunately a tank lasts me about 2 weeks. How is that? I made the decision to LIVE close to where I WORK, I carpool with co-workers and neighbors, and I combine trips when running errands. THE ONLY WAY TO COMBAT THIS PRICE GOUGING IS TO REDUCE YOUR CONSUMPTION AND THUS DRIVE DOWN DEMAND. If you are commuting 20+ miles to work and riding alone, you are part of the problem… not a victim. The only good thing coming out of this is maybe there will be a few less unnecessary suburban assault vehicles (SUVs) on the road.

By Tim

August 16, 2005 08:55 AM | Link to this

Everyone should get a credit card that offers rebates on gas if you don’t already have one. Some offer as much as 5% and this helps to alleviate some of the pressure.

By Sonja

August 16, 2005 08:56 AM | Link to this

�What kind of car do you have? I have a 1999 Chevy Malibu

�How much did you spend the last time you filled up? $22 to fill up. I really try to not let myself go beyond the half point mark.

�How often do you fill up? 1-2 times a week.

â€â€?Are you making any driving changes? I don’t drive to hang out with my friends as much. I have family scattered all over the place. So I’m not driving to Stone Mountain, Gwinnett, or Alpharetta like I used to. I try not to make little stops, and I’ve cut down my trips to the library. I don’t want to even think how my gas budget will change once I return to college to get a new degree. The price increase is out of hand, and our so called “cost of living wage increases” are a joke being they don’t match the rise in prices. In addition, I don’t go to the movies like I used to. I just wait for titles to come out on DVD and get them from Netflix.

By Kristin

August 16, 2005 08:56 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 Ford Escort. It took me just over $22 last time to fill up. I can manage to fill up every two weeks. I used to be able to fill my tank for about $12. The rising gas prices are literally making me sick and I get between 35-40 mile per gallon! My boyfriend and I were not going to live together before we got married, but now we are seriously considering it just so we can save money!

By NEvans

August 16, 2005 08:57 AM | Link to this

I Live in Lithonia and I work in Marietta off of Canton Rd. I drive a 2002 Rav 4.The last time I filled up it cost $28.50. I fill up twice a week. It’s Killing me.

By chris

August 16, 2005 08:57 AM | Link to this

I have a Saab convertible and an Isuzu Rodeo and a Plymouth Breeze but when I’m not carpooling, I leave them all at home and commute to work via bicycle almost 10 miles each way. In anticipation of these oil prices after the Bush re-election, I purchased a home near a bicycle path that safely takes me almost all the way to my office. I only wish there were more bicycles lanes instead of these silly paths that mostly just meander from park to park. We need to be able to take bike lanes from residential areas to office areas, not from parks to other parks! I mean, who lives on Kennesaw Mountain and works in the Chattahoochee River? Nobody!

By Lou

August 16, 2005 09:00 AM | Link to this

A 2001 Chevy Cavalier. Last time I filled, it was $26. I take MARTA every day to work, and stay close to home on the weekends, no more trips to visit friends in north Gwinnett or South Carolina or Forsyth or Kennesaw. I also consolidate all my errands. Because of all those changes, I fill every two weeks or so.

By Mel

August 16, 2005 09:00 AM | Link to this

I have a 40-gallon suburban. It took a ridiculous $102 to fill my tank. It used to take just over $60 dollars to fill. I live in Bremen and work in Atlanta, have to fill up once a week (pushing it). I am considering giving up a $78k a year job for one closer to home and riding my motorcycle every chance I can, which is not much due to the rain.

By J

August 16, 2005 09:01 AM | Link to this

I live .5 a mile away from work, my 8 yr olds school is .10 of a mile away from my work, the 3 yr olds daycare is 1 mile away…. I topped my gas tank off Sunday at $2.50 a gallon for a total of $24.37 it should last me about a month depending on what friends I go and see and what activities I plan for me and the kids…. hummm maybe I hit on something the rest of ATL should figure out!!!

By Bean

August 16, 2005 09:02 AM | Link to this

100% agree with Ken! If we drive the way we were driving before, it’s only obvious that people are willing to dance to their tunes. We have to put a stop to this and decrease the demand for gas. That is the only way to let them know.

By Jason Cairns

August 16, 2005 09:04 AM | Link to this

I live in London and we pay the equivalent of $6.50 a gallon, and very little people here complain about the cost of gas. We also pay the equivalent of $15 “Congestion Charge” per day for the privilage of driving within or through London’s central zone - which is about to be extended. You people are really lucky to be getting such a bargain on your fuel, and not to be charged for entering downtown.

By Wayne

August 16, 2005 09:04 AM | Link to this

Motorcycle. Fill it about once a week for about $6.

Have I changed. Nope, I’ve always ridden motorcycles year round. I don’t like sending too much of my money off to those that have political agendas that I don’t agree with.

Spent an entire week vacationing last month driving around Virginia and the Carolinas. That probably took $50 in gas.

Remember, I’m saving you space in the parking lot and on the road, keep an eye out for my. Thanks.

By Tom

August 16, 2005 09:05 AM | Link to this

I drive a ‘03 Pathfinder. I just had my first $42 fillup last week. I wasn’t watching the pump while it was filling up, and when it clicked off, I looked up and was shocked at the total. I literally turned around to see if half of it had poured out on the ground. Fortunately, I work from home, so I don’t have to fill up that often…about every 10 days or so. It has me rethinking unnecessary trips, and when I do run errands, I plan out my route to be most efficient. What’s so scary is that gasoline prices affect every single facet of our economy…I’m afraid if these prices keep up, companies will suffer and people will lose their jobs.

By sina

August 16, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

I have a nissan altima and it takes $30.00 a week and $30.00 on the weekend. So I spend about $50.00-$60.00 a week to fill up in gas alone.

By Alton

August 16, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

What kind of car do you have? I drive a 2004 Ford Explorer.

�How much did you spend the last time you filled up? $45.00

�How often do you fill up? I live in Mcdonough and have to drive into Atl. every day. I have to fill up at a minimum 2 times a week.

â€â€?Are you making any driving changes? I don’t go unless I absolutely have to. When I do, I try to do all I have to do while I am out.

By Alan

August 16, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

By kelly

August 16, 2005 09:10 AM | Link to this

I am driving a ‘99 saturn manual and get better than 35 mph. I have always combined errands and carpool when posible. I bought a smaller home closer to work to save on gas because I was able to apply a little common sense and knew that gas prices would go up. The europeans have been paying more than 5.00 for years.

All I can do is laugh at the gas pigs driving around by themselves in their monster SUVs that never leave the pavement. Its obvious that they never learned or understood about simple supply-and-demand principle of economics that guide our nation’s pricing structure.

Oil is a limited non-renewable resource and eventually the planet will run out of the stuff. Prices are not likely to ever decrease signifigantly again. Its time to melt down those monsters and get smaller more fuel efficent cars that do better than 30+ mph.

Start thinking about future generations and their needs.

By S. Whitlow

August 16, 2005 09:10 AM | Link to this

I drive a 94 Honda Accord. I know gas is getting crazy when it cost me almost $35-40 to fill up a Honda! I commute from Stone Mountain to Decatur everyday, so I’m filling up every week if not every few days. I made a few changes with where I go. I hardly ever go out on the weekends, so I can save gas for week days. I don’t make any unnecessary stops. I do all my shopping at one place, and I try not to run the AC. Gas is getting crazy. Can we do something about?!

By Thomas

August 16, 2005 09:10 AM | Link to this

I drive a Vespa Granturismo scooter and get around 60mpg. I can leave the SUV at home and save around $50 a week. I only have to take it when the weather is bad, which seems like every day this month. Even when I’m not smiling while I drive past the gas station, it only takes tiny bites out of my wallet with a 2.5 gallon tank.

By Too much

August 16, 2005 09:11 AM | Link to this

A Honda Accord 25.00 for a half a tank 1 time/week I have quit driving fast, passing for no reason, avoiding heavy traffic. We car pool and walk to places now…glad all the oil companies posted all time high profits for last quarter! Thanks Bush!

By kristen

August 16, 2005 09:15 AM | Link to this

I live in Duluth, GA. Last time I filled up it cost me $50.00! I am changing the way I do things, at the end of the month I am buying a marta pass and starting to take that to work every day. It’s getting too expensive to drive. I fill up once a week. I can’t do that anymore.

By Martin

August 16, 2005 09:16 AM | Link to this

I telecommute and merge erands as much as possible and drive a honda civic. We toss the kid in the back seat and he has plenty of room. My spouse drives the same (different year and color). …

By Brenda

August 16, 2005 09:18 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 Nissan Sentra, live in Union City and drive to work in Atlanta every day. Besides picking up my son from band practice in the afternoon it is costing me a fortune just to do those things. It used to cost me $15 to fill up. I filled up this morning and I paid over $28. I try to limit my travel and only go to places within the required travel points: work and school.

By Duane

August 16, 2005 09:20 AM | Link to this

I have went from a Ford Explorer, to a Ford Tarus, now to a Geo Prizum, and it still takes atleast 50 to 60 dollars a week to drive from Cartersville to Dobbins ARB. The next step is learning to ride a motorcycle and riding it to work.

By Tony

August 16, 2005 09:22 AM | Link to this

I fill up about twice a month. Costs roughly $30 for a 96 Honda Accord. I ride CCT everyday - public transportation is the way to go folks.

Agree with all the international (lived in London for a while - the tube is the best) and conservation posters. As gas prices rise I think we’ll see less congestion on the roads and a fitter population. I have no problem with rising gas prices - soon us Americans will realize we are not the center of the world and can pay what the rest of the world pays for gas.

By Mark

August 16, 2005 09:23 AM | Link to this

Bought a scooter and fortunately for me I work and live ITP..Cost me about $3 a week to go back and forth to work and run errands.. Have a car but hardly ever drive it unless the weather is really bad. You’d be surprised how easy it is to get around town on one of those things for pennies. Just watch out for absent-minded drivers!

By Nicole

August 16, 2005 09:23 AM | Link to this

I drive a Mitusubishi Galant and before gas prices started going up, it would take 23.00 to fill up. Now that they have gone up, it now takes 48.00 to fill my tank up and I think that is so ridiculous! To help myself out, I walk to class or carpool with my other college friends! Something needs to be done about this!!!!!!

By Eric

August 16, 2005 09:23 AM | Link to this

I drive a Ford F-250 Crew Cab 4X4 with a V10 engine. It costs on average $65 to fill up and I have to do it 6 times a month. It definitely digs into my pocket, but I haven’t changed my driving habits, just back and forth to work and the gym, then Sunday is errand day. I made my vehicle choice, now I’ll live with it.

By mad

August 16, 2005 09:24 AM | Link to this

98 S10 around $30.00 to fill up from a 1/4 tank I drive 110 miles a day.fill up twice a week.Now if I go any whereonthe weekends I will spend more,such as this weekend I spent $77.00

By Jefe

August 16, 2005 09:24 AM | Link to this

I’m a contrarian, so I believe that this is the best time to buy a gas guzzler. When gas prices were cheap 2 years ago and everybody wanted a big truck or SUV, I bought a little Toyota Corolla. That little car is worth more today than it was last year. After work today, I’m buying a Crew Cab Ford F-150 because Ford is practically giving them away. I’m paying about $5000 less than a friend who bought the same truck last year. With that savings, I can buy 2 or 3 years of gas. FYI—now is the worst time to buy a hybrid or a fuel efficient car because dealers are raising the prices and offering no discounts.

By Darren

August 16, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

97 Toyota T100 V6 Pickup Yesterday, paid $51.00, fuel light on. I spent $240 on gas last month due to trips out of town, usually only fill 2x a month! Ouch!

There’s a reason the European’s have higher living density and very good public transport!!! We have been spoiled by low gas prices and now it will take some time (years) and high prices before folks, and the auto industry change their ways. We should have know it would come eventually, our own fault!

By Rich

August 16, 2005 09:28 AM | Link to this

I drive a VW Beetle. It took me $26 to fill up Sunday. That’s ridiculous. I have no choice but to drive to work, live in Douglasville, work in Atlanta. Dumb folks that say London pays $6.50 a gallon (This is the USA, not London), we should’ve seen it coming (yeah when Bush got office the second time). There’s no reason we should be ripped off this way and try to justify it.

By Fran

August 16, 2005 09:28 AM | Link to this

I own a 2000 Acura 2.3 TL. Which only takes premium gas so I spend $38 every 3 days because my commutes is 67 miles going & coming from work with no other stops. I’m actually going to Walmart on lunch to purchase a moutaineer bike.

By Cindy

August 16, 2005 09:29 AM | Link to this

I have a 2004 Corvette which only takes premium & a 1999 Chrysler LHS that uses regular. So, the Corvette stays in the garage more these days…. Luckily I live 9 miles from my office so I can usually go 8 or 9 days on a tank of gas if I don’t go anywhere else. I filled up yesterday at lunch & paid $2.49 per gallon and that same day on the way home they had raised it to $2.59. It is getting way out of hand… Something really needs to be done and soon!

By Coleen

August 16, 2005 09:30 AM | Link to this

I drive a ‘98 Escort and it used to cost $9 to fill up. This weekend I paid $25 — at Kroger. So I innocently decided to start taking Marta to work beginning today — guess what, the lot was full (Avondale). I didn’t know what else to do, so I drove to work. Wake up, Marta, everyone is going to have the same idea and there is not enough parking! (Does anyone know of more parking on the Eastern line?)

By David Lardner

August 16, 2005 09:31 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Toyota Prius. I have owned this car since August 2000 because it was painfully obvious then that either one of the then candidates for President would have an effect on gas prices…Gore with taxes and Bush with oil profit gifts to his friends.

I average almost 56 MPG. I drive 24 miles a day in my commute.

Bottom line…The price of gas won’t make much of a difference to my wallet until it gets to $8 a gallon.

If you have purchased a gas-guzzler since the 2000 election, you have no one to blame but yourself if you can’t afford to fill it up. It still amazes me how short-sighted we are as a people.

By Barb

August 16, 2005 09:33 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Mazda pickup. Last time I filled up it was $35 +. I fill up once aweek, usually Sun. evening to drive back & forth to work all week (28 miles each way) By the time I get to Friday, I’m on empty. I assume that after this week $35 is not going to last all wk. The grocery is on the way to my home so I just drop off there on the way home. I have no way of changing my driving habits as I have to go to work. My husband who is retired has a 1992 Chevy Silverado, he doesn’t use much gas so we use his if we have to go see our kids, etc. Thank goodness our daughter & family only lives 10 mins away. On vacations we go close by fishing , we can’t afford long trips. My sister lives about 130 miles away & I haven’t seen her for almost a year. No one can afford the gas. My youngest brother lives in Texas, I guess we’ll never see him again unless something changes gas wise.

By Doug

August 16, 2005 09:33 AM | Link to this

Car: 2001 Toyota Celica

Last Fill-Up: About $28. I fill up once every week-and-a-half or so. Funny thing is, I’d been recently thinking about getting back to a mid-size SUV. Not anymore! Now, I’m interested in a hybrid.

I have been recently thinking about asking my boss if I can work from home once a week or so. I live in Norcross and work in Decatur so the commute is somewhat far. I try to be efficient but I gotta slow it down a little more on the freeways, too! Oh, and I wonder how many people here complaining about gas prices voted for Bush!

By Crystal

August 16, 2005 09:34 AM | Link to this

I drive a 94 Mazda Protege. It cost me $24 last time I filled up. I fill up once a week. I am changing my hours so I can ride with my boyfriend to work. Gas prices are so out of control! I remember when I fist started driving it only cost $6 bucks to fill up. AND I AM ONLY 23! NOTE TO DRIVERS: If you make sure to change your air filter regularly, and keep your fuel system clean you will get more mile for your buck. Air filter and fuel cleaner are maybe $15 combined. It could give you about 2 maybe 3 miles per gallon.

By Kurtis R.E. Segars

August 16, 2005 09:34 AM | Link to this

It’s time to start drilling in ANWAR. This can help relieve the burden until alternative sources of enregy can be better researched an perfected. We must ignore the Enviormentalists guise and realize they only care about a weaker America. Drilling in ANWAR would only take place in a very smal piece of the reserve, a place that has always been dedicated to oil drilling, since ANWAR’s beginning.

By CHARLES

August 16, 2005 09:40 AM | Link to this

OK folks, think about the windfall in taxes for ALL goverments..more retail gas sales equals to more TAXES coming in… That is why the politicians have not been heard and DO NOT Care so WITH THAT SAID, I HAVE A
2003 Dodge Ram which NOW cost $250.oo a week, for the 1000 miles or so I drive doing Sales prospecting in Supply Chain markets all over the Southeast. Lucky for me I own a company and can write ALL of it off in taxes! Start a small business….today!!

By Tray

August 16, 2005 09:41 AM | Link to this

Got a Honda, can’t afford to fill up regardless, I’m a student. throw 20 -25 and pray that lasts for the week. Try to do all my stops on the way, if I have to stop. Have stopped seeing friends some due to the distances. …

By scott

August 16, 2005 09:46 AM | Link to this

I sold my car (maxima) and moved into the city. Everything I need is within a 10 minute walk. Work, grocery store, coffee. There’s this thing called mass transit and another thing called walking that I hear people used to do a hundred years ago. I’ve tried both and, WOW, each is an excellent form of transportation.

I haven’t had to pay gas, insurance, or make a car payment in 2 months.

Eventually, I will have to buy, though. It would be un-American of me to not pollute. It will definitely be hybrid, when that day comes.

By Drew Price

August 16, 2005 09:48 AM | Link to this

Hey Jason Cairns, I really don’t care that you have to pay $6.50 a gallon for your “petrol” or that you have to pay a $15 driving fee. Here’s the bottom line, this is America and considering that gas was roughly half of what it is now this same time last year; that’s a big enough jump for us to be angry about it! And last time I checked you had a mass transit system that can take you anywhere you want to go, we don’t have that option with MARTA. The average distance for a daily commute in Atlanta is something like 100 miles round trip. So if I want to say that paying $2.79 for 93 octane gas is crappy, I will!

By thriftywoman

August 16, 2005 09:49 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2002 4Runner and drive from Acworth to Atlanta for work everyday. I driver from Acworth to Kennesaw at least once on the weekend. I really can’t cut my driving and more, so I’ve started looking at other expenditures to cut to make up the difference. So far I’ve been pretty successful by changing phone and DSL providers, shopping for sales, etc.

By W Powell

August 16, 2005 09:50 AM | Link to this

I drive a 1998 Ford F-150 with a 6 cyl engine. The last time I fill up was yesterday. I had a 1/4 of a tank already and it cost $49 to fill it the rest of the way with mid-grade @ $2.64 per gallon. I use about 1 and 1/4 tanks per week. This has to change. I don’t go anywhere but to work and the grocery store. That is it.

By Dyvonne

August 16, 2005 09:52 AM | Link to this

I drive a 99 Mountaineer and it takes $42 twice a week to fill up my tank. That’s $336 a month!!!! I drive about 100 miles a day just to get to work in Alpharetta and the drive up 400 is terrible. I’m going to see if my boss will let me come to work earlier just so I can commute with a co-worker.

By Rick in Marietta

August 16, 2005 09:52 AM | Link to this

2002 Camry around $40 to fill up. I drive mostly to work and back. The oil companies / traders / OPEC are sticking it to the American consumer BIG time and there is not much we can do about it. There are no shortages and no lines at the pump…so the only factor in the sharp rise is GREED. My wife and I have cut back on dining out and have put off a new car purchase indefinitley. Her car is 6 years old but is paid for and runs great. Detroit needs to deliver hybrids and fuel cell cars SOON so we can tell the oil companies / OPEC where to stick their crude!!! Shame on all of you!!!

By Amos

August 16, 2005 09:53 AM | Link to this

GREAT IDEA!!!! I will bet you though, and now they will “change” laws concerning this deduction. Watch and see.

Thanks for the idea Charles!

By Amie

August 16, 2005 09:54 AM | Link to this

I drive a Chevy Impala $14 gave me less than a half tank yesterday. My husband and I are carpooling to work because we can’t afford to drive both vehicles (we work with in 5 miles of each other) To fill up will cost me appx. $35. We have cancelled our Labor Day vacations because of gas prices because we can’t afford it. Gas prices are rising, if they do not go down soon it will be cheaper for me to stay home instead of working. There should be some kind of cap on gas prices we need to boycott and I would bet that would open someones eyes!

By Andrea

August 16, 2005 09:55 AM | Link to this

I’ve got a 98 Altima, and it costs about $30 to fill up. The good news is I use less than a tank per month. When I moved here, I planned to be able to take MARTA to work and be in a walkable area for restaurants, entertainment, etc. Even better, my company pays for part of my MARTA pass! So it saves time, money, and avoids extra pollution.

By Mike

August 16, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this

An alternative to hybrids is a diesel. I drive a diesel that gets 37 mpg highway and 27 city. Diesel now costs about what regular costs again. I work out of my house, so my fuel costs are fairly low. I wish the press would give the new generation diesels MORE coverage. There is little up front purchase premium, the new common rail direct injection diesels do not cackle, smell, and perform great. My car goes 0-60 in just over 6 seconds…do that in a hybrid.

By Alan

August 16, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this

I drive an older 4X4 full size truck. Only good point is no car payment. If you put in the price of a new auto to save you on gas then it costs you more. No payment more gas $, new car payment plus gas?

It cost 40 dollars a week to commute 15 miles each way (30 total a day).

By Nesy

August 16, 2005 09:58 AM | Link to this

I drive a Honda Accord. I last filled up on this past Saturday and it cost me $33.50, considering that I spent $5.00 in gas earlier that day. Because of the high cost of gas, I have limited my window shopping excursions to the local malls and to see friends. I buy a lot of things online and just call or email friends to maintain contact.

By N Smith

August 16, 2005 09:58 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2000 Chevy Malibu and it is costing me a little over $40 to fill up my car. I have to fill up twice a week because my fiance and I share a vehicle. We definitely have changed our activities and stay in the house unless we have to go out. Will gas prices ever dropped back to 1.09 a gallon?

By Patrick Samara

August 16, 2005 09:59 AM | Link to this

Scott, congratulations on saving money and the planet. Of course, is it really saving when you are paying 2 to 3 times more for an 800 square foot closet than us hicks “OTP”?

By Jennifer

August 16, 2005 09:59 AM | Link to this

I drive a 99 Crowne Victoria. Paid $40 the other day, up from $32 a week before. Ridiculous! Wish I could get a motorcycle but I have a 4 & 2 year olds who need a safe car with car seats. We can forget having any fun, I can forget any new clothes for college coming up, and we just sit at home. My hub is a contractor and drives to customer houses all day. He drives a 2000 Ford F150 truck, which he must have to hold all his equipment, and fills up about 2 times a week at $60 each time. That’s about $450 a month! He’s having to get a 2nd job just to pay for gas.

By Patrick

August 16, 2005 10:00 AM | Link to this

Hey Scott, …I’m glad that you have a job to where you can afford to move 10 minutes from. Most people have to live where they can afford to live, and more times than not it’s not within walking distance to work. And another thing, most people nowadays don’t work within the perimeter, they work up in the suburbs of Alpharetta, I would like to see you get around this area without a car. Here’s a little hint, It ain’t happening.

By Doug

August 16, 2005 10:01 AM | Link to this

This year I sold my Nissan Xterra, which got miserable mileage for a 2005 Prius. I went out of state to get it as GA dealers blatantly added 3-5K dollars on top of the price. I fill up once every 2-3 weeks and it is a 12 gallon tank. $21 or so per tank. I miss the room of the Xterra but enjoy getting 44-49MPG around town. On longer trips, I get from 52-55 MPG, AC on etc. I am using less gas, and driving at least the same amount. Gas is only going to go up, and the oil companies have been conditioning us rather agressively to accept higher gas prices because THEY WANT THE MONEY, not because there is any shortage or whatever. Even if it did drop to a dollar again, I would still be content to fill up for 12 bucks and do it less often. I have not changed my driving habits really.

By teacher

August 16, 2005 10:03 AM | Link to this

No change in my habts. I carpool with my coworkers, and we only live 5 miles from the office. We may not live in huge homes but our 10 minute commute means that we have more time to spend with our families.

I love reading about all these drivers of the huge oversized trucks saying all they do is drive to and from work. Since that is the situation then why did you buy these trophies to conspicuous consumption?

By chad

August 16, 2005 10:03 AM | Link to this

I moved from Atlanta to New York City 5 years ago for work and have to tell you the subway is the way to go! I still keep track of my beloved hometown and frankly can’t believe that there STILL seems to be so little movement on improving MARTA. If ever there was a time for Atlanta to catch up with the rest of the world and realize the benifits of public transportaion for the city’s economy, the environment, and saving on personal fuel costs - this is that time!

By Dee

August 16, 2005 10:03 AM | Link to this

1992 Accord — A couple of years ago I could fill up for $14. I filled up last Friday for $30 (14 gallon tank). I average 60 miles round trip to work. Luckily I get 25/gal so I only fill up once a week. This sucks! We should all be able to telecommute if our jobs are able to do so.

By JB

August 16, 2005 10:05 AM | Link to this

I drive a Toyota 4Runner. The last time I filled up it cost me $57.00. I usually fill up once a week if I go anywhere on the weekend, or every 1.5 weeks if I stay home. Now I try to buy gas only when I absolutely need it, and I’ve even tried buying half a tank hoping the price would go down before I needed it again. But the problem is now it keeps rising, not fluxuating like it had done a while back. I’m considering buying a second vehicle (more compact and fuel efficient) just for long commutes to work.

By Ryan Leslie

August 16, 2005 10:07 AM | Link to this

I work from home and drive a 2000 Chevy Blazer. I still fill up once a week at about $30.00 a fill. People still need to get a grip as gas cost more in 1980 (adjusted for inflation it cost us more than $3.00 a gallon in 1980) than it does today. It could be worse too, they pay almost $6.00 a gallon in Europe. So stop whining and move on.

By kevin

August 16, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

I drive a 1997 infiniti I30 it takes me anywhere from $38 to $44 to fill my tank. I work 40 miles away…gas is killin me. I have a motorcycle…but it rains 4 out of every 5 day work week so I dont ride too often. “the pain, the agony”.

By San

August 16, 2005 10:09 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Camry, and have a 35 mile drive each way to work. Reading the postings here, I must comment that the lady that says she will not trade down her Sequoia until prices are astronimcal must really be well off. Is $2.60 not enough for you?? And speaking of the SUV’s, look on any road, anytime, and you will see all the new ones with the dealer tags still on em. These folks have no desire to join the human race and try to band together to help stop this spiral that we are in. As long as we don’t band together as one to help stop this, we are all going to lose. There should be NO ONE at a gas station where gas sells for more than the station across the street.

By ray

August 16, 2005 10:09 AM | Link to this

Mercedes 420 sel 1987. I never fill it up. I’ll put 3 or 4 gallons. I work from my home. I bought a scooter to get around my neighborhood downtown/midtown. I get 90 mpg. it costs me under 2 dollars to fill it. I drive my car once or twice a week. If you all want to know why this is happening, look up “peak Oil” or “peak oil crisis” in google or yahoo. Read up and you will understand. i found out about this 3 years ago and have changed my behaviors since. scary stuff.

By MJ4UF

August 16, 2005 10:10 AM | Link to this

These high gas prices do hurt, but they are not going to stop me from driving 05 Mustang! I paid $45 to fill my tank last week. My drive to work is about 12 miles, so I fill up on Monday, and I am dry by Friday.

By BLAKE A

August 16, 2005 10:18 AM | Link to this

I DRIVE A JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. I LIVE IN CONYERS AND WORK IN ATLANTA. I FILL UP TWICE A WEEK AND IT COST ME $48.75 EACH TIME. PRESIDENT BUSH NEEDS TO HELP THE ENCONOMY….WE HELPED HIM GET A SECOND CHANCE.

THANKS!

By jt

August 16, 2005 10:22 AM | Link to this

I drive a ‘96 Crown Victoria, and it cost me $42 was week to fill it up. It might not get the best gas mileage (18-20mpg) but it’s paid for. The cost of buying a more fuel efficient car would outweigh the extra cost of gas.

By Kelly E.

August 16, 2005 10:24 AM | Link to this

I have an Acura Integra. Its a 4 cylinder. I put 20 bucks in my car and it didnt fill it all the way up. I drive 60 miles round trip each day and gas is killing me.

By Lt. Love

August 16, 2005 10:24 AM | Link to this

This Atlanta Firamen drives a 1987 Toyota Celica, I fill up every 3 weeks, the last fill up cost me 34 dollars, its just a 12 gallon tank. I only drive this car to work. I no longer visit friends and family because fuel cost has surpassed my utiity bills. I give my share of fuel to my wife and kids who travel in a 95 Maxima into the city for work and school. Fuel cost for the above vehicle 160 a week. As a law abiding tax payer I can,t enjoy the fruits of my labor without taking essentials from my hardworking wife and kids. This is the beginning of the new status quo, the have gas and the broke stranded. Gas prices are making the gas barons filthy rich. As I always say they don’t love us. The working class are the victims here.

By kdw

August 16, 2005 10:26 AM | Link to this

I own a Mercedes and a Miata. I am also ‘carsitting’ my boyfriend’s Expedition while he is fighting in Iraq. I drive the Expedition to Lowe’s and Home Depot ONLY. Even though both the Mercedes and Miata are very good on gas mileage, I tend to drive the Miata more because it takes regular unleaded gasoline which is cheaper than the premium grade that goes into the Mercedes. I filled up the Mercedes last Sunday for about $38.00. I drove it to work all last week and one day so far this week. It will probably cost me that much to fill up the Miata now. I don’t want to think what it will cost to fill up the Expedition! Most of my driving is getting my son back and forth to basketball practice and games. Fortunately, we’re getting a little break from that right now, so I’m okay but I really wish they would get a handle on these gas prices. Are the oil companies still making 70% profit?

By David Lardner

August 16, 2005 10:27 AM | Link to this

Oh Blake….can’t you realize that HE is a HUGE part of the problem

By Rhonda K.

August 16, 2005 10:28 AM | Link to this

I drive a 1995 Infiniti, and put $27.00 in prem. gas in yesterday, it was on 1/4 tank when I got gas, before $13.00 filled the tank. My drive to work is 14 miles each way, so I can go over a week without getting gas. We have a Ford Explorer(when my husband’s kids are with us there are 6 of us, it seats 7). With my husband’s job always requiring him to travel, it was cheaper for us to buy him a small truck and park the SUV. Sunday $20.00 bought half a tank of gas for the Explorer. My husband is a sales manager, he drives around 300 to 500 miles a week in a GMC Sonoma. He’s spending between $200 and $275 a month in gas, thankfully his car allowance is fairly generous.

We also have a motor home, it gets 4 to 6 miles per gallon. We plan on taking it out for Labor day, but to save on gas instead of going to Lake Lanier(60 miles) we are going to Lake Allatoona (30 miles).

I’m watching the prices of the large SUV’s, if they drop enough, we’ll get one, but it won’t be for everyday travel.

By MJ4UF

August 16, 2005 10:28 AM | Link to this

BLAKE. .STOP YELLING! The biggest reason gas is so high is because you still drive your Jeep, and I am still kickin it in my ROCKIN ‘STANG. Prices go up, but we don’t slow down. I hope that people do understand the biggest reason for all of this is the Economic and industrial boom in China. Of course, what fun is that. .we have to blame Bush for it. Everything is his fault. Why can’t he just give us hand outs and pay for my gas. .maybe my mortgage too while he is at it. We pay less for gas than any where else in the world. .what else do you want?

By Emyrld

August 16, 2005 10:30 AM | Link to this

I’m driving the same car I drove last year, to the same places I drove to last year..oops (did I say last year..I meant last month) and its costing me twice as much to do so! Average about $35 per fill-up! I am ready to boycott these prices for at least 1-3 days, maybe we’ll get somebodys’ attention or at least make our voices heard. Let’s start it up !!

By Claire

August 16, 2005 10:30 AM | Link to this

I sold my Ford Expedition and bought a Lexus RX330 to save on gas. When I bought the Lexus in May it cost me $27.00 the first time I filled up. Yesterday, it cost me $41 to fill up….

By sonia Edwards

August 16, 2005 10:31 AM | Link to this

I have a 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander. The tank is smaller than my previous Galant, so I have to fill up about every 4 days, driving from Lithonia to downtown. When prices were “normal”, it cost about $17; Sunday it cost $25.20. I’ve been riding MARTA more often, trying to combine errands and not going anywhere after work.

By Isaac

August 16, 2005 10:31 AM | Link to this

I drive a 96 Ford Ranger and a 96 Chevy Impala. It takes $35 to fill up my Ranger and $58 to fill up my Impala. Round trip to and from work is 96 miles and it can take and hour to two hours one way depending on traffic and weather. I drive my Ranger all the time and I have to fill up 2 times from Sunday to Friday. If public transportation was available in my area I would take it instead of driving.

By Jen

August 16, 2005 10:34 AM | Link to this

I’m driving a Mini Cooper - one of the most fuel efficient cars on the road - and I paid over $31 to fill my 13 gallon tank last weekend. That’s the first time in my life I’ve paid over $30 to fill a tank.

By Heather

August 16, 2005 10:36 AM | Link to this

1999 Chevy Prizm

I spent $26.00 to fill up from 1/4 of a tank on Friday, before prices went up again. It used to cost around $10-12.00 to fill up. I use about a tank a week now. In a week I have to start commuting 45 miles one way to work. I’m considering moving, rather then driving.

By Atlantasfinest

August 16, 2005 10:36 AM | Link to this

Luckily I made the move from The Cascade Heights (right outside of 285) area to the Inman Park/4th Ward/Freedom Parkway area of Atlanta 2 years ago and I THANK GOD for the move! I work for the Federak Govt so my Marta Card or any public transporation is paid for in FULL. I only live .8 miles from work and I have 2 bus lines that take 5 minutes to ride to work from my residence, or I can catch the Marta from Inman Park or MLK Memorial Stations of the East Line of Marta for a 5-8 minute ride to Five Points. Everything I need is right here In-town Atlanta such as Grocery Stores, Gyms and Nightlife… I feel sorry for the folks who live outside of 285 and have to drive 20-100 miles to work…SAD! Should’ve moved intown!!!HAHA

By Greg

August 16, 2005 10:38 AM | Link to this

It’s good to hear,some folks are finally getting off thier highhorse,and trying MARTA. Public transportation is NOT just for the poor, and carless some folks are just more smarter, and, more down to earth.Yes, i know some of you can’t take MARTA. But when MARTA wanted to extend into other areas, some folks RAISED HELL. Remember? , now you cry for it. How ironic. Try falling out of love with your car, and try walking too the store if you have safe side walks.

By Atlantasfinest

August 16, 2005 10:38 AM | Link to this

I forgot to mention that I can ride my bike and walk to work which is .8 miles on nice fall and spring days when it’s not too hot outside..Gotta Love It!

By Tom d.

August 16, 2005 10:41 AM | Link to this

4x4 Expedition and a Mazda Miata. The last fill up in the Expedition costs $70 and the last fill up in the Miata was $23. I drive the Miata to work now because I don’t want to spend $70+ dollars to get to and from work each week.

By Karen

August 16, 2005 10:43 AM | Link to this

I drove a ‘96 Honda Civic from ‘98 until March this year. My Jan. fuel bill was $66 - to work 32 miles a day R/T, to the gym 11 miles R/T sometimes 6 days a week (my main hobby).

The rapid rise in gas prices has made otherwise normal decisions in my personal life this year seem like errors in judgment. I’m single and on a budget. I planned for adding a car payment this year , trading up to a 2003 Honda Element in March. MPG is 22 highway, but my last fillup was $26.00 (Civic used to cost me $12).

I started dating a great guy in Alpharetta in Feb. (I’m in Larryville). I happily drove to his place every Fri. and Sat. night until I got my first $200 gas bill! Now my “date” is my boyfriend and drives to my house on Fri. I drive to his on Sat. Seeing each other more than twice a week isn’t even an option at this point

I started riding my bicycle 11 miles R/T to the gym in June, only 3 or 4 days a week. My July gas bill’s still $170! Don’t know what I’ll do when it’s too cold to bike. I’m also looking for a job closer to home. If I can bike to work, I won’t go into debt driving the car.

Since 1986 I’d always paid my gas bill in full every month without fail. I have to cut serious corners now to get it paid. I hate canned tuna (okay for the cat, not for me) but I’m eating it more than 3 times a week now. I eat out once a week with the boyfriend if he insists, otherwise I cook for us. I don’t go anywhere without asking myself if I can afford the drive first.

I really feel for the families out there. I’ve got a very bad feeling we’re all going to be building more debt, via our gas credit cards, from now on.

By Michael

August 16, 2005 10:44 AM | Link to this

I may live in a smaller place but I have a 10 minute commute and spend lots more time with my kids and only fill up the tank every two weeks.

I got to laugh at all the gas guzzlers that complain about the big tanks they are driving around it by themselves.

By Tony

August 16, 2005 10:51 AM | Link to this

Luckily I have a job that allowed me to telecommute. There is a major issue where citizens are paying inflated prices that will not stop increasing while the government rakes in tax revenues from fuel and the oil companies are making record profits. Price will continue to climb until something breaks with the politicians and oil companies “reducing deficits” and making huge profits at our expense.

By Katie

August 16, 2005 10:54 AM | Link to this

It was $48.00 to fill up my Jeep Grand Cherokee yesterday. My husband has a Chevy Silverado that he stopped driving on a regular basis about a month ago, when we bought a commuter car off eBay for him. At that time, it took $55 to $60 to fill his truck up, and took me about $30 to $35 for my Jeep. Now, it takes his little commuter car $30 to $35 to fill up. But, what can you do? If you need the gas, you’re gonna buy it.

Pretty soon, we could have our two vehicles and have two commuter cars, insure and make loan payments on all four of them, and still save money just by driving the commuter cars during the week. It’s pretty sad. I almost want to move out of our house back into an apartment less than a mile from work.

By Marcus

August 16, 2005 10:54 AM | Link to this

I think employers should be helping out by giving more options to work at home or communication to get people to car pool. People are killing themselves diving 1 hour plus to companies that don’t care about work life mix or how much more they are spending on gas.. However, most people won’t relocate to get closer to their office because of housing cost and lack of “Faith” in their companies commitment to employees.

By Bryan H.

August 16, 2005 10:54 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Isuzu Rodeo 3.2L V6, which gets around 17/21 mpg.

Last fill up cost me about $37.00.

I’m lucky and live about 15 minutes from work, so I fill up about once every 8/9 days or so.

I can remember when gas was 89 cents a gallon. Back then I was driving a 1990 Ford Escort, so I was paying something like $13 to fill up. Boy, would it be nice to see that again!!!

By Peter

August 16, 2005 10:55 AM | Link to this

I drive my Miata to MARTA (as I have since moving to Atlanta 6 years ago). A fill-up will last two week’s commute. Filling up my wife’s Volvo will get her around a month.

As an advocate of public transit, I regret the lack of foresight shown by Atlanta’s leaders. (The government subsidy of oil hides the global cost of oil. We are paying less than half the price now.) I laugh at Hummers … .

By E. Lewis

August 16, 2005 10:59 AM | Link to this

I have a Ford Taurus 6 cylinder that I bought used last year when my 4 cylinder Chevy Cavalier finally died. When I got the Taurus $20 would buy me almost a full tank of gas. Now it barely buys me a half tank. I used to wait until I got to below 1/4 of a tank before I filled. When it became apparent that I would be spending more than $30, I started to fill up at 1/2 a tank. I spend the same amount as before but at different intervals. Infantile, I know, but it works. It’s unfortunate that public transportation is practically nonexistent where I live so I’ve given up those co-worker lunches to pay for gas. When I go out with my sisters to run multiple errands, whoever is driving gets a “gasoline fund�. Everyone else kicks in few bucks and we make fewer trips.

By Vickie

August 16, 2005 11:00 AM | Link to this

I drive a Jeep Cherokee. Last time I pump it cost me $50.00 and I have to fill up my tank twice a week so that’s about $100.00 a week. I only drive that car to and from work 5days a week. No, I cannot make any changes right now, but is getting to be pretty hard.

By Val

August 16, 2005 11:01 AM | Link to this

I drive a Camry (v4)and it takes about $33 to fill my tank. My husband drives a Dodge 1500 4x4 and it takes him about $60+ to fill his tank. We both filled up Sunday evening. Luckily we both have less than an 8 mile commute to work one way. We have limited our weekend driving and combined errands to 1 afternoon 1 vehicle.

By jtw

August 16, 2005 11:02 AM | Link to this

I drive a ‘93 Honda CX- the smallest engine made by Honda. I have an 8 gallon tank and used to fill up with 10.00- now it is 22.00 to fill up my car. I can only imagine the SUV’s

By Gina

August 16, 2005 11:03 AM | Link to this

I work for the State and am required to use my own car for work. I get reimbursed $.28 cents per mile. I filled up yesterday for $68.00. I hope that will last all week, but, depending on what I have to do for work, I may have to fill up two more times this week. On a $31,000 salary and being a single parent, the gas prices are taking food out of the fridge. The reason I keep my car, it’s paid for and a car payment is not in the budget right now.

By Mike Greenberg

August 16, 2005 11:04 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2000 Ford Focus. I spent roughly $23 on my last fill up. I fill up about once a week. I commute from Cleveland, TN to Chattanooga, TN every day (about 25 mls each way). I just drive slower and try only to use the A/C when I can to conserve fuel. We just bought a house so I really have no alternative unless I ride a bike. I work odd hours so car-pooling is not an option either.

By Robin

August 16, 2005 11:04 AM | Link to this

I drive a Nissan pathfinder, and the gas is killing me. I am currently looking for a used car to trade it for. (with better gas mileage). My spouse drives 120 miles per day roundtrip to and from work. It is actually now costing us money for him to work. What do we do? Does he quit his job and stay home? This would cut out the gas expense and we could save the daycare cost. But, then there would be no money for child support for his other children. What do we do? We have been grappling with this question for months now. THere is no easy answer.

By jtw

August 16, 2005 11:06 AM | Link to this

HI Look AtlantaFinest; no need to brag this session is for moaning over the gas prices- you belong to another forum.

By allen

August 16, 2005 11:06 AM | Link to this

If you were one of the people that forward around that email about how a gallon of gas was cheaper than a gallon of milk…well you are getting what you deserve.. and who ever is comparing us to other countries…knock it off…unless you have lived there and understand how they tax there gas and force people to use public transportation (that we don’t have) you can not compare our country to any other. Even the analyst say this is a false inflation and eventually burst and prices will drop…I have to travel for my sales job.. yes it is killing me but I don’t eat out as much any more I am not doing other things that I use to do. Our consumption as a nation has only increased 1% in the last year…reduce my consumption..I wish I could. If anybody on wall strett is listening…we have had hurricanes and mideast trouble for since the automobile was invented…stop using that as an excuse to jack up the price of fuel.

By Jacqui D.

August 16, 2005 11:07 AM | Link to this

I have a 2001 Ford Focus. It is pretty good on gas. I usually fill up when I get to about 1/4 of a tank. It used to cost between $10-$12 dollars. This past Friday I filled up for $18.62 at $2.55. The only good thing is that I am blessed to have a job in which I make my own schedule and when I do have to leave to conduct audits or atten meetings, I am reimbursed for mileage.

By Bob

August 16, 2005 11:08 AM | Link to this

I drive a Toyota MR-2 Spyder. 36 miles / gal. I telework 1-2 x per week, so that helps. Right now, I’m getting $0.10 off / gallon at Kroger and I use my Discover card for 5.25% rebate. I still drive downtown, but I use flex time and arrive early / leave early beating most of the traffic. About $25 / week.

By Ryan

August 16, 2005 11:08 AM | Link to this

-Just bought a new Galant (4 cylinder!!!)

• Although it cost me over $40 to fill my tank, I only have to do that once a month. I live in Midtown and work Downtown, exactly 1 mile from my house

• Haven’t had to change a thing, and I have absolutely no sympathy for anyone driving a big SUV…your finally getting what you deserve!

By Carolyn

August 16, 2005 11:08 AM | Link to this

I am in the Decatur area. I am not working at this time. I decided to stay at home with my first child August 2001. I am now looking to go back in the work field. I bought my car a 1992 Buick Lesabre in 1992. It used to cost me $12 to fill my car up.Now it cost me $32.75. I have had several jobs offers but, what since does it make to take a low paying job that will only pay for gas.Something has to change.Gas cost more than some daycare centers. I was once worried about taking a job that will only cover daycare but now with gas as high as it is I will need two low paying jobs to cover the expense. So, right now my husband and I decided that is makes more sense to stay at home until the right paying job comes alone.

By Angus

August 16, 2005 11:11 AM | Link to this

My car is a Honda Civic but it is parked most of the time. My Ninja cycle gets 58 mpg so it sees the road most often. Cost to fill is $8.50 which is good for around 180 miles or so. Fill up for the bike is around once per 10 days…

By Brian

August 16, 2005 11:15 AM | Link to this

I sold my car 3 years ago and take Marta where I need to go. I haven’t even been paying attention to gas prices.

Also, isn’t it strange that we’re still seeing adds for Hummers and all of the other Suburban Utility Vehicles on television? How come there aren’t any adds for the hybrids and smaller-engine cars?

Pretty soon a lot of people are going to have to choose between food or gas. How fun will that be?

By Laura

August 16, 2005 11:16 AM | Link to this

I drive a Ford Explorer. I commute from Jasper to work in Marietta and have to fill up 2 x’s per week. I filled up yesterday and paid $2.59 for 87 grade. It cost me $44.00. This is crazy, but what choice do I have?

I would not be too proud to take public transit if given the option.

By chan

August 16, 2005 11:16 AM | Link to this

Yes, I have a small 1995 Mitsubishi Eclispe it cost me $35.00 my other car is a Acura 2002 MDX that cost close to 45$. I live in Snellville kids in daycare in Norcross work in Alpharetta. would love to work from home or in the county I live in but no jobs that will pay. How can there be a shortage of oil when that is a natural resource that the earth produces. I say it’s just to cause a recession.

By Wendy

August 16, 2005 11:17 AM | Link to this

It cost me $42 to fill up yesterday; that will last me a work week if I’m careful in a Honda Odyssey. Between my husband & I we are budgeting $400 for gas a month, I pay less for daycare of my child!! He is in a Toyota Tacoma for work purposes. I wish I could stay at home and work!

By Diane

August 16, 2005 11:18 AM | Link to this

I’m just glad to see folks being honest. I hate when someone is interviewed on the news and they say “No, I really can’t see that it’s affected me.” It’s affected us all, from changing driving habits to what we pay at the grocery!

By Caleb

August 16, 2005 11:19 AM | Link to this

I have been car-free in Atlanta since 1997 and have not been impacted by the rising price of gas. By moving into Atlanta, declining higher paying jobs for one that is close to home (and MARTA), and making a conscious decision to live where I could walk to a MARTA station, restaurants and shopping (and use the money I saved on gas, insurance, etc. to buy a more expensive condo) my lifestyle has adapted to true urban living and I am healthier for it. Sure, it’s been a hassle at times, but I see the writing on the wall. And I must confess that I get a certain perverse satisfaction in the challenges that await those who could easily make lifestyle changes, but don’t. There is not silver bullet to save us from this predicament, so get used to it.

By Lydia

August 16, 2005 11:19 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2000 Dodge Intrepid. It used to take me around $17 to fill up when I first purchased the car. The last time I filled up, it was $37 and my car was not on empty and I paid $2.29 for the gas. I have NOT been driving my car. I have stopped attending my regular Church congregation, opting for one closer to my home. (2 miles) Also, I teach at a school that is approximately 3.6 miles from my home.

I no longer go to the gym or Stn Mtn park for my exercise. I now walk around my neighborhood. And visiting friends??? HA!

By Ken

August 16, 2005 11:19 AM | Link to this

Looks like we as a metro area are all pretty fired up, but it’s up to US to do something — so, let’s send a clear message. What is coming up in a few weeks? A 3-day weekend… when oil companies typically gouge the consumers anyway. BOYCOTT THE GAS STATIONS! Don’t buy ANY GAS from September 1 through the 6th. None! Let the gas stations stay empty… stay home and off the road until we go back to work on Tuesday and let’s see what happens. If you think this is a good idea, copy this post and e-mail it to EVERYONE YOU KNOW.

By Alan

August 16, 2005 11:22 AM | Link to this

I drive a 1992 Jeep Cherokee. It cost me $40 to fill up. It lasts me two weeks! I live in Douglasville and have a two minute commute to my office by car, 6 minutes by foot. I have to drive to North Cobb on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings - never on the Interstates and never during rush hours. Live where you work and work where you live. It’s cheaper.

By SoFine U

August 16, 2005 11:22 AM | Link to this

I drive an automatic ‘96 Pontiac Grand Am. My husband drives a manual ‘97 Ford Probe. It currently costs us a combined $70 per week to fill our cars. Our schedules are very different and we work in opposite directions so we cannot carpool. We thought a stick would be more economical because it burns less gas. That’s a joke. It doesn’t matter if your paying almost $3 a gallon. Now that school has started again and I do not have to pick up my children in the afternoon, I will be taking public transportation. I live right off of spaghetti junction about a 15 minute commute from my job which incidently is right at the freeway in midtown/buckhead. It’s more inconvenient but certaily more economical to take MARTA. I have no choice. We simply cannot continue to pay these gas prices.

By Adrienne

August 16, 2005 11:23 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 Nissan Maxima and for everyone that owns one, you know the gas prices are killing me! I put premium fuel in my car, so it cost me about $40.00 to fill up my car as opposed to $30.00 a year ago. I work downtown and I would just like to give thanks for MARTA. Without it, I would have to sign my paycheck over to the gas station each month! Find alternatives if you can!

By Tim

August 16, 2005 11:24 AM | Link to this

Volkswagen Jetta Diesel 5 speed. It gets 60 MPG and will go 700 miles on a tank of fuel. I filled up yesterday for $2.35/gal. It cost about $33, but I can run for three weeks. It’s still a lot of money, but It’s sure better than most. I really can’t make any changes in my driving.

By coleen

August 16, 2005 11:26 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Hyundai Sonata and it costs $25.00 on Sunday to fill up. I work from home 2 days a week. Thinking about getting a scooter. Husband commutes 45 mi a day and fills up 2X a week, he drives a Ford Escape (baby SUV) and is getting 22 mpg. See, you don’t have to drive a monster SUV!!! It infuriates me every time I see a Hummer….gas sucking hogs.

By Jodi Leigh

August 16, 2005 11:27 AM | Link to this

I drive a Jeep Wrangler and I put roughly $20 a day in it for gas. I work up in Dawsonville and live in Duluth, and it’s really starting to hurt me spending $100 a week on gas, and selling the Jeep for something isn’t even an option because of the money I’ll lose since I just bought it 6 months ago.

And I don’t think that we need to be bashing the SUV drivers. I know that most who drive them wanted a safer vehicle for their children, and the cost of gas is the price they will pay for their safety.

By Beau

August 16, 2005 11:27 AM | Link to this

We have reached the price point where sweeping changes are necessary. I was in New York yesterday and gas was cheaper than Atlanta… NEW YORK CITY cheaper than ATLANTA!!! It has gotten out of control.

Now is he time to organize and demand that automakers expedite the process of alternative fuel source automobile production. We need not be HELD HOSTAGE any longer.

By Marca

August 16, 2005 11:29 AM | Link to this

I have a 2002 Buick Rendevous. It is ridiculous when you have to decide between a gallon of milk for the kids or a gallon of gas,, I have to fill up twice a week leaving Lawrenceville going to the Perimeter. It is costing me about $80 weekly not including the weekend. Can someone please donate a gallon of milk or perhaps some GAS!!!

By Latosha

August 16, 2005 11:30 AM | Link to this

I drive a 02 Passat. I drive from Morrow to the Perimeter Mall area everyday. Plus I pay toll. I drop off and pick-up the kids everyday. To fill up my car it takes about $37.00. Plus I still need gas to get to work on Friday. People really better stop and think about whats happening. I don’t see this situation getting any better as long as we have a President that works for Corporations in the White House. People better stop buying SUV’s and big work trucks if they don’t need them.

By Eric

August 16, 2005 11:30 AM | Link to this

What disturbs me is that our government does not seem to care how much gas goes up! I know my pay check does not go up this rapidly. Time for some help! I drive a Honda Accord and travel about 9 miles to work.

By Michelle

August 16, 2005 11:32 AM | Link to this

I never thought I would say this, but I actually miss the hot, sticky, smelly, over crowded subway system of NYC!!!! If GA had a better public transportation system, I would take it instead of drving my car, and watching my needle move closer, and closer, and closer to the E. This stop and go traffic does NOT help matters. Seems everytime the barrell of gas increases by $1.00 prices jump up ten cents. This is getting out of hand!!! I’m so happy I did not buy the SUV the dealership was trying to temp me with!!!! I would be crying even more. I will stick with my almost paid off Malibu.

By Slade

August 16, 2005 11:33 AM | Link to this

I drive a Durango. It cost me over $50 to fill up. I fill up twice a week. Where is the outrage over income taxes?? Gas prices will continue to soar as long as we continue to consume. It is our own fault. Instead of focusing on gas prices, I choose to focus on all the money the government steals from me every year through the income redistribution plan.

Slade

By Randi

August 16, 2005 11:35 AM | Link to this

I work from home BUT am still feeling this gas crunch. Hubby works 35 miles away. My gas bill went from aobut $125 a month to over $200 a month. Z71 and Explorer. That extra money has got to come from somewhere so I am sure that stores will start feeling this soon too. I now stay home and do things like pay bills and buy stuff off the internet. Grocery shopping and errands are done about once every 2 weeks. I also hate “Europe has paid high prices for years” attitude! So What! Doesn’t mean we have too. This is the current political adminstration’s fault and at election time I hope we wipe the slate clean…

By Grace

August 16, 2005 11:35 AM | Link to this

I drive a 2000 Mitsubishi Galant which costs me approx 40$ every time I fill up. With my commute to work i have to fill up 2x a week.. All I can say is GO MARTA!!!

By Karla

August 16, 2005 11:36 AM | Link to this

2001 Accord V6. We bought a house closer to the city and work. I now have a one way 8 mile vs 20 mile commute. My husband works at home more often and combines business jaunts. A fill up yesterday cost $33 and will last one week. We beat the game by living closer to work, combine our trips and plan where we are going rather than driving aimlessly. Hang in there V8 drivers & long commuters - things will get better hopefully after Labor Day. Don’t we wish cars ran on water, but someone would find a way to increase its price. Humor.

By A Aycock

August 16, 2005 11:36 AM | Link to this

I drive a 03 Ford Escape - that - given its size - gets lousy gas mileage. I live within .8 of a mile from work, shopping is close, and I paid $25 at the pump last time (nearly fainted). While this is the USA and it is hard to compare our situation with that of London, England - it is curious as to why they pay $6.50/gallon and we are paying $2.60/gallon for regular. This happened last year about this time (price of gas going up) and people did cut back so significantly that the oil reserves were at a record high - which caused the cartel to lower prices. If you really want to make these oil mafia guys mad - just don’t buy their product. They get real antsy when they can’t do the backstroke in a pool of money. Get creative about how you get around using their oil - there is nothing more American than a good ‘ol fashioned boycott…

By Gary

August 16, 2005 11:36 AM | Link to this

1) I work from home just a mile ITP for a company in D.C., and my wife works maybe a mile away. All total, I’d say we spend far less than $75 a month on gas and we most of the gas used isn’t for commuting, it’s for actually going and doing what we want. Both cars exceed 30mpg. 2) If you ask me, it’s pretty funny to watch people complain about the price of gas knowing they bought a gas guzzler in the first place. Sorry, you just aren’t a victim. 3) Boycotting is a joke and won’t work as people need to fill up sometime, so the post-“boycott” rush offsets any prior lack of business. Common sense. 4) Hate the gas prices? Restructure your life accordingly and don’t expect things to change. They won’t anytime soon. Use the energy of complacency on something more proactive. 5) Just because we’re America doesn’t mean we’re entitled to low gas prices. The Brit’s in the right to point out that nearly every other industrialized country pays much more for their gas.

By Keith Kinder

August 16, 2005 11:38 AM | Link to this

Well, I used to drive either an F150 or Mustang Mach 1 around. But now I try to stick with my 91 Escort when I can. It wouldn’t be so bad if the gas companies could justify the prices. But, when they were the in the top 10 profit making companies last year it lets you know that they aren’t cutting back on their profits to “help us out”. Not that I expect them to not make a profit, but at least make a modest profit rather than a full out gouged profit!

By Bette

August 16, 2005 11:40 AM | Link to this

33 dollars to fill up a 2002 Grand Prix. It is making me violently sick. When you have to put 15 on your credit and 10 on your check card just to get 3/4 of a tank. It makes you sick to your stomach.

By Sti

August 16, 2005 11:41 AM | Link to this

OK people, lets not forget that when you factor in inflation…Gas is still comparitively cheaper than it was in the 80s! We recovered then and we will again!

By Thos

August 16, 2005 11:41 AM | Link to this

Driving from Lilburn to Marietta everyday. Have to fill my tank twice a week. The cost of fuel is killing me. We don’t go anywhere and don’t spend money and that hurts the economy. I am looking for work closer to home, but that is not easy to find either. Bush needs to fix it and fix it now. That is part of his job.

By Daniel

August 16, 2005 11:48 AM | Link to this

Funny that this story is the main article on ajc.com. I used to live in Alpharetta for 3 years and I moved back to Europe 2 years ago. Since gas prices are at a record level in Europe as well, I was wondering what the average gas price in ATL is. So I visited ajc.com this morning for current gas prices, minutes before the story was on the front page. FYI, the lowest I paid in 3 years for regular gas was 0.79$. For sure I wouldn’t allow gas prices to influence my life. Sport and friends play a major role in my life. You just have to find alternative travel options!

By Chris

August 16, 2005 11:51 AM | Link to this

Georgia has the lowest state gas taxes in the country, but our avereage gas price is no cheaper than the national average!

Why doesn’t our lower state gas taxes translate to lower pump prices? A few years ago it used to, but no longer.

That’s the story the AJC should be reporting!

By Rick

August 16, 2005 11:52 AM | Link to this

Gas prices are way too high. I am paying 35 cents more at the pump than 2 weeks ago in Sandy Springs. This rise in gas prices is out of control and no one seems to be doing anything about it. Luckily I take MARTA in to work, otherwise I would be paying more per week for gas. If they are going to raise prices like this, the government needs to tell all employers to increase pay by $1000/yr to offset cost.

By Eric

August 16, 2005 11:59 AM | Link to this

Have a Hummer H2… cost me $84 to fill up this morning. I’m going to have to either cut out one of my 3 lunches at Bones a week, or get an H3.

By Sparta Know It All

August 16, 2005 12:01 PM | Link to this

It costs me big bucks to keep gas in my small Honda Accord to drive from Stone Mountain to Alpharetta to work. I don’t know why folks are complaining though. With two oil men controlling our destiny and getting basically anything they want, did anyone expect gas prices to go down? Oh Joy!!!

By Atlantasfinest

August 16, 2005 12:07 PM | Link to this

Another thing I forgot to mention… I have a 2000 Isuzu Rodeo and since I live in-town now I hardly ever drive it since everything is so close and I use MARTA to and from work, Or walk or bicycle to work and Marta To The Lenox Mall & Phipps and to the airport twice a month for weekend trips. But I Fill-Up up my Tank Once a Month which would now cost $40 and change and that holds me over :). Another advantage of living in-town is that all the nightlife, restaurants and cultural events are here so I never have to drive far or leave outside of 285!

By Michelle

August 16, 2005 12:09 PM | Link to this

I drive at 98 Cadillac Deville. It cost me about $70.00 a week. I live in Lithonia and work in Buckhead. The prices of gas is totally ridiculous. I cannot use the lower preminum I have to use the gold pump at about 2.79 a gallon. I put $20.00 dollars in yesterday and it only gave me 6 gallons. I am ready to start parking at the train station and riding Marta.

By Patty

August 16, 2005 12:13 PM | Link to this

We have a 2004 Honda Accord. Also, the other car is a 2000 Dodge Ram. Fortunately my husband and I work 5 miles from each other and can car pool in the Honda. Its the best way to go, besides getting to spend time with him. :-)

By Houckster

August 16, 2005 12:15 PM | Link to this

One person wrote: OK people, lets not forget that when you factor in inflation…Gas is still comparitively cheaper than it was in the 80s! We recovered then and we will again!

The problem with huge spikes like this is that our budgets are hard pressed to accommodate these increases. It also rubs salt in the wound that a large part of the price we pay is due to ruinous speculation and profit-taking by the oil companies who have closed one refinery after another to restrict supply and bring profits up to what they want.

By Susan

August 16, 2005 12:15 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 Mazda-6 and it costs 36.00 to fill it up now, when it used to cost almost 18.00 a year ago. I have stopped going out to eat or running to the mall or to see friends, gas is just too much!! Where is legislation helping control this issue…Our paychecks stay the same or go down and everything else keeps going up!!! Thanks for letting me vent..

By Zletr Blake

August 16, 2005 12:16 PM | Link to this

I moved from my hometown Atlanta to Lovely Savannah Georgia and we have 3 trucks. Hugh trucks. 2 F-150 and 1 GMC Envoy. We only live 11 miles from work so we fill up every 2 weeks after spending $150.00 in gas in 3 vehicles. We have not and will not change the way we drive because we chose our hugh vehicles and are sticking by them. Needless to say, complaining about the gas price will not make it go away.

By Bill

August 16, 2005 12:18 PM | Link to this

I would highly encourage anyone ITP to try MARTA. I have begun taking it more often from my home in Candler Park to work at the Perimeter. MARTA gets a bad rap but it is great so long as it goes where you want to get to. The gas savings is nice but you’ll enjoy the stress reduction (no traffic) even more.

By Heather

August 16, 2005 12:20 PM | Link to this

I drive a 95 Mustang GT, and my last fill up cost me $32. I have to fill up 2-3 times a week if I don’t do anything other than go to work. I live in Dacula, and work in Alpharetta, because I can’t stand living where I have to sit in traffic for 20 minutes just to get to the grocery store. I like the clean air I breathe at home. Lucky for me my car is paid for, otherwise I’d definetly have to trade in!

By Roscoe

August 16, 2005 12:21 PM | Link to this

I drive a ‘96 Ranger with a 4 cylinder engine. Cost $40 to fill Sunday. My wife drives an ‘02 Focus. Cost $30 to fill last night after gas jumped a dime overnight.

I stopped driving to work a year ago and switched to Xpress. Save 1,000 miles a month on the truck, fill up every 3 weeks instead of weekly. Save a ton of money over driving, gas, parking. No more road rage or crankiness from Atlanta drivers at the end of the day - I read or sleep on the bus instead.

We drive the Focus rather than the truck for most stuff - the 5 or 6 mpg extra makes a big difference.

By SoFine U

August 16, 2005 12:23 PM | Link to this

‘96 Grand Am & ‘97 Probe (manual)$70/week combined. Europeans and others that agree with them, we are justified in being a peeved about gas prices doubling in a year. The fact of the matter is, fuel has been as expensive as it is in Europe for a few years giving you time to adjust. Yes there is a public transportation system in Atlanta however it is not as efficient as yours in London. I’m pretty sure it doesn’t take you 21/2 hours to get from your place of employment to your home on public transportation. (it’s a fifteen minute drive). This really presents a major problem if you have children to transport. The geography of Georgia is such that a car is a necessity and not a luxury particularly if you have family. I would be more apt to agree with you were you referring to a city like New York where the situation is opposite. I totally agree that a change in demand will affect the price of the supply, however, some people need to take a look at the total picture and every possible situation before you make broad and insensitive comments about how we should all live our lives and change our habits. Some of us can’t afford to purchase a BMW that gets 35mpg or live .1 miles from where we work, shop and matriculate; Nor can we ride a motorcycle or bike to work because we little ones in tow. Hey, I don’t drive a gas guzzler, nor do I purposely subject myself to the hell we call Atlanta traffic just for the selfish purpose of uh - going to work and providing for my family. The fact of the matter is the gas prices are a rip off! - Big business and pure profit for the Bushes and their buddies. For those of us hardworking people that have no choice but to drive to keep our livelihood, it’s just not right. I’m working just to be able to pay to get to work! It’s ridiculous!

By Greg

August 16, 2005 12:23 PM | Link to this

I used to have a 1998 Chevy Venture. It cost me over $50.00 a week to run due to having a 25 gal tank. Fortunately it died on me and now I have a 2002 Saturn SL1. It costs me half what the van did however, I do have a car payment now. :(

By Nick

August 16, 2005 12:24 PM | Link to this

I drive a 99 Porsche, my wife drives a Pacifica. I filled up today for about $35 - the Pacifica takes almost $50 to fill up! It’s crazy. The gas shortage is no more a reality now than it was in the 70’s - just a bunch of guys in NY speculating about what it will do in the future - and completely unregulated at that. Sorry, Hybrids aren’t the answer either - has anyone decided what we’re going to do with all those batteries when they start wearing out? Each one is a toxic waste site by itself. Additionally, many firefighters and rescue workers unions have publicly stated that they won’t rescue people in wrecks involving hybrids for fear of chemical burns and electrocution…right now all we can do is grin and bear it. But in 2008, we can vote the problem out of office!

By Andy

August 16, 2005 12:26 PM | Link to this

Its all Bush’s fault. If he found the cure for cancer, people would fault him for taking so long! Environmentalists have thwarted ANWAR and more refineries. Someone said the automakers are bad for not making enough fuel efficient cars. They are out there but people vote with their pocketbook and voted SUV and truck. My wife wanted a Tahoe and now my family pays the price. I drive a VW diesel running on free veggie oil, so I offset some of that expense. Stop looking for conspiracies, folks. Its a world market now. China, India and others arent running on bicycles anymore! That cheap stuff we love at Wal-Mart has a price!

By Bob

August 16, 2005 12:27 PM | Link to this

I had a 4x4 Dodge Ram 1500 with a HEMI and it slurped down gas like you would not believe. I usually got 8 miles to the gallon. I dumped that truck when the prices went over $2 a gallon in anticipation for $3 a gallon, which I think will be a reality. I now ride a motorcycle that gets 50+ miles a gallon. It is hot but at least I am not paying $800.00 a month in gas.

By katrina kole

August 16, 2005 12:29 PM | Link to this

Cheapest gas in Northern Calif is Arco (BP) at $2.89! Jay sus Chroist! Glad I live downtown! Katrina Kole

By Sandi

August 16, 2005 12:30 PM | Link to this

I drive a 05 Toyota RAV 4. $35.50 this morning to fill up!! Thank God we had the foresight to buy a smaller vehicle with good mileage, but it still pinches. I really feel for my 17 year old son who has a 96 Jeep Grand Cherokee. I don’t think he has had over a half tank of gas in the last 6 months!!

By Colleen

August 16, 2005 12:30 PM | Link to this

What I want to know is who is looking into price gouging in GA? In NY State, where taxes are much, much higher on gasoline, they are paying less right now.

I drive a 2000 Mitsubishi Galanta GTZ.I paid 31.25 last time and fill up only every other week.

By Robert

August 16, 2005 12:30 PM | Link to this

People let me tell you gas prices are not only high but outragous. My wife and I both commute over 60 miles round trip per day. I drive a mazda millenia (you know the kind that only takes the supreme gas) and she drives a ford expedition which the last time I filled up it cost around $55. I average about $500 dollars spent in gas each month and the the weekends are starting to resemeble sleep-fest because we can’t afford to do anything but sleep eventhough we have six figures comming in. I just got a raise at work and she will be getting one at the end of the month (you know teachers get small raises each year), but with the cost of gas so expensive it will be as if nothing changed. If consumption of gas is the problem, then I have an idea, why don’t we get together as a country and not drive for a week and see what happens to gas prices?

By zac

August 16, 2005 12:35 PM | Link to this

I drive a tahoe and it costs me 70 to fill up right now… this lasts me for 375 miles.. do the math..I do not feel bad for the guy driving the escort who now spends 20 instead of 8. Find something else to complain about.. like the fact that it takes over an hour for me to drive 10 miles to work

By Tim

August 16, 2005 12:35 PM | Link to this

I just receied my gas bill in the mail and between my wife and I it was over $300.00. I know that the gas companies are making money. China is taking alot of our fuel but I don’t see why the goverment won’t release some of our stored fuel. It is sad because we are not getting more money at work but yet gas is going up and we have to pay. I know the Goverment can help the gas prices go down if they wanted too but big business is paying someone off.

By Nancy

August 16, 2005 12:36 PM | Link to this

My husband and I own a 99 Subaru Forester which I now consider the “gas guzzler”. We recently got our new Toyota Hybrid Prius-just in time! This definitely has got to be the wave of the future. $16.00 last time to fill the Prius and $30 for the Subaru. Luckily we are only 9 and 12 miles from our jobs and I can telecommute - another good perk, when possible.

By joe

August 16, 2005 12:38 PM | Link to this

1996 Toyota Tercel now costs over $22 to fill! I refuse to live far from work so only have a five mile drive twice a day. Fill up every two weeks. Those of you who voted for Bush - welcome to your world!

By S. James

August 16, 2005 12:40 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2002 BMW 325i sedan — last time I filled up cost $26 — and that was at half and PREMIUM!!! I drive to and back each day about 25 miles total. I usually go out a lot during the weekend — trying to cut that back. I might have to cut church out every Sunday because I don’t have enough to tithe!!! Gas prices have to get better or all of us will be walking to work. And i wish I could use MARTA, but the closest bus stop is 2 miles away.

By Jennifer

August 16, 2005 12:43 PM | Link to this

UGH!!!! I drive an 05 V6 Mustang and it’s a great looking car but brutal on gas!! I live in Dallas, GA and work in Atlanta. The commute is terrible. I pumped a half tank 2 days ago at $25 and I am on E again. I am a single mom. Gas prices are for sure affecting my wallet. What used to be easy to handle has now become stressful. I picked up a second job a month ago just for this purpose alone. Forget the luxuries of life it’s all about survival now. I’ve already told my boss once it hits $3 for 87 I’m working from home. They don’t pay me enough to do this, which is another forum topic….How many people work for companies that give them crappy “raises” that don’t even match the cost of living or cover a tank of gas while they take home there huge bonuses and get gas allowances???

By Debbie

August 16, 2005 12:44 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2004 Nissan Frontier truck. I filled up last night, $31. I only have a 12 gallon tank, and about 22 MPG. Closest Marta to me is at the airport. By the time I left 75N and got to the airport, found a place to park and then get Marta, I could be at work, by an hour. I just go to and from work, and stop at the store on the way home. I don’t make special trips out or visit much.

By Steve W.

August 16, 2005 12:45 PM | Link to this

I commute over 70 miles each day. How much do I pay for gas?? How about $50.00 per month. I’m one of the few and very happy van pool roders who joined the METRO VAN POOL program. I’ve saved over 70k miles on my car, I have a great group of people to talk to every morning, and if tired, I can sleep!! Driving from Fayette to Cobb county just can’t get any easier…

By mark

August 16, 2005 12:45 PM | Link to this

When i got rid of my SUV in 2002, everyone thought i was crazy. I drive a 1986 Toyota pick-up truck, it cost $24.00 to fill-up every two weeks.When and if the prices ever go down, then i’ll make some changes. I’M JUST LOVING MY HOOPDEE!!

By John

August 16, 2005 12:46 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 MR2 Spyder that averages about 34 mpg, so the gas prices sting a little, but they don’t really hurt. I will say that I do get a bit of satisfaction out of seeing people at the pumps with their H2s, Tahoes, and Expeditions whinning about gas prices. America has become obssessd with big gas guzzling vehicles that they don’t need, and now it’s coming back to bite them. I look forward to seeing fewer SUVs barreling down the road. The people who drive big vehicles out of necessity (delivery services, business owners, large families) are paying the biggest price for the general public’s lack of fuel conservation.

By Jared

August 16, 2005 12:48 PM | Link to this

I drive a 93 Mazda Protege, I get 30 miles to the gallon and it’s still not enough. I spent $26 last time i filled up. It usually lasts me almost 2 weeks. That’s with me going to work and going to school. If i have any shopping to do i do it all in one day and I try not to have too many side trips. I would like to thank all the SUV’s for using up all the gas to begin with. THANK YOU!

By Kara

August 16, 2005 12:49 PM | Link to this

Ok! If all you are no longer driving anywhere on the weekends and only going to work and back WHY are the roads still always SO congested anytime of the day or night? It cost me $50 to fill up my truck but you know I am not complaining - life must go on. I don’t like it but I chose the car I have to deal with it.

By Jennifer

August 16, 2005 12:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Ken(towards the top)..Not everyone can choose to change there job or there home just to move closer to the other so there how’s that!?! If I could afford to live in Atlanta or Vinnings to be close to my job, I would gladly. If I could just up and change my job like I change socks to be closer to my house, I would do that too, but your reality and options are available for many. So no, we aren’t apart of the problem. I’m glad you can do that, why don’t you come to Dallas and pick me up tomorrow so we can ride in together???

By Karen

August 16, 2005 12:51 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, and until I find a job closer in to Larryville, I’ll be taking the local Gwinnett Transit bus to my current job in Buford. That will cut the miles per day down by half. Then maybe I’ll get to see my boyfriend 3 times a week!

By Scratching_My_Head

August 16, 2005 12:52 PM | Link to this

Okay… So, last week, the big oil companies released their profits…not a ONE under 30%!!!

What is wrong with this picture?If their profits are going UP, why do the prices keep climbing?

As for cars? My husband drives one of those “suburban assault vehicles.” Since he’s 6-4 and is very physically large ( all muscle, no fat, thanks)- he NEEDED this car for his commute. However, he said he may be looking at switching with me—i drive a maxima- and still get about 30 mpg. However, it is still taking 35 dollars—at the Sam’s club!—to fill up. We took a trip to florida..probably over 100 in gas. This weekend, off to take the kid to college…a 4 hr drive. i am TERRIFIED to think of the cost of gas for the SUV and his car (an OLD VW bug) this weekend!

Oil men in the White House. What a surprise that oil companies are getting richer, while we are getting GOUGED.

By kristin

August 16, 2005 12:52 PM | Link to this

I WISH EVERYONE WOULD QUIT CRYING ABOUT BUSH!! I don’t think there is a Libral mind that could do any better at running this country. Yes, I do think the government will get control of the problem. In the meantime, quit complaining and figure out ways you can save in other places. Rome wasn’t built in a day and this problem won’t get solved overvnight. So grow up and DEAL WITH IT!

By Brighton

August 16, 2005 12:57 PM | Link to this

My wife and I share a subaru wagon. We paid about $45 last week. Good thing is we live in East Atlanta and work downtown. We can carpool, take the bus or ride bikes. I’m really happy we bought in East Atlanta - our social life is walking distance - bars restaurants and shops. If we built more places like that (even in the suburbs) people wouldn’t need their cars as much. It sucks to hear so many people are cutting out their social life / friends because it costs too much for them to get around.

By Auggie

August 16, 2005 01:00 PM | Link to this

Mine on the wkday is an MB older model which I have been filling it up w/ Mid grade. last time 27 to fill up: gets about 22~25 on the highway. Now I carpool w/ my coworker. Save me about 20 bucks a wk.

By Jason

August 16, 2005 01:00 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1996 Ford Mustang Cobra. I spent nearly $45 filling up. I fill up usually about once a week, at least. I have restored to taking MARTA. I work for Boys & Girls Clubs of America as well as the Braves. I take MARTA from North Springs or Dunwoody station to Arts Center to work at BGCA. After that, I take MARTA down to Five Points and over to the Georgia State Station. I walk from the Georgia State station to Turner Field. It’s a bit of a walk, but it’s good exercise. I then take the Braves MARTA shuttle and back to the train to get home. It saves me gas money, wear and tear on my Cobra, and it saves me from having to pay to park at Turner Field. (Yes, Braves employees have to PAY to park at Turner Field!) This morning, while listening to AM 750, I heard the story about gas prices. Aparently, the government can’t do a thing about gas prices. This is angers me to no end because I know this is absolute and pure BS. I know the government has the power to stop this insane price increase. I’m going back to school next week, will you please tell me how a college student is supposed to afford this? I’m working TWO JOBS it seems just to pay for GAS!! That is WRONG. The government is making excuses. If Bush can afford to spend all this time on vacation at his ranch, I’m sure he has some time to do what he can do stop these outrageous gas prices! I was trying to win the “Gas For Life” at BP. No such luck!

By Hank

August 16, 2005 01:01 PM | Link to this

I have a 90 Nissan truck (paid $2200). My wife has a 99 Forester (paid 13k). Why do people complain about gas prices when you are driving a new $20,000 to $40,000 new car/SUV. No one forced you to buy that car. Figure what it really cost you to run your car: Cost, insurance, interest, maintenance, tires , depreciation etc. Gas is a small part. If you can’t afford the gas, you can’t afford the car.

By Tom T. Mai

August 16, 2005 01:05 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1990 Honda CRX with 193,000 on the odometer. Regardless of the miles or the age, my little car still gets an average of 32 miles per gallon. I filled up yesterday and the tank was near empty. It cost me $25. I get roughly 320-350 miles per tank. This CRX is a drastic change from the Range Rover that I used (which now sits idly by in the garage) to commute around town in (up until the other day when the gas prices exploded). The Rover would cost me $50 per tank and each fill up would net me less than 250 miles. I used the Rover to haul my dog and mountain bike around but since downgrading to the Honda, I have removed the partition in the hatch area to accomodate my dog and also purchased a bike rack system for the top of the vehicle. I will be attending UGA for the fall and I plan on using my bike to commute around campus instead of driving my car (as opposed to the thousands of students who flood the tiny streets of Athens with their z71 Tahoes and Suburbans).

By Michael Brown

August 16, 2005 01:05 PM | Link to this

My wife drives a Mercedes E Class and it requires high octane gasoline..I pay over $20 to bring it to a full tank from over 1/2 tank and our Expedition will not even pass a gas staion..over $50 to fill it up from just below a 1/4 tank..at the rate we are currently paying we may not be able to drive from pump to pump at the same gas station

By Sally Segur

August 16, 2005 01:07 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2005 Jeep Liberty. It costs me about $38 for 3/4 of a tank!! I have been taking MARTA; however, the closest station is about 17 miles from my house so next month, I am going to start using the GRTA bus service from Douglasville to the MARTA Five Points station. The bus is only about three miles from my house. Atlanta needs viable mass transit options all over the metro area affordable in-town housing.

By Laura

August 16, 2005 01:08 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2004 VW Jetta and I live in Acworth, work in Midtown. I filled up yesterday and it cost me over $30! My husband drives a Toyota 4Runner and luckily he works in Marietta, not as long of a commute. I have started carpooling 2-3 days a week w/ a coworker, but we both have babies in daycare, so it’s not always possible! We only drive my car on the weekends b/c I get better mileage. How is this right when the oil comapanies are reporting record profits of $6 billion dollars!!!

By C Butler

August 16, 2005 01:08 PM | Link to this

Cannot afford to drive to work. Looking at using Rideshare to help save on gas. Carpooling is the best way out. Visits to family and friends are kept at a minimum. Relaxation riding is over. Prices are too ridiculous.

By KRandall

August 16, 2005 01:09 PM | Link to this

Just paid $18 for 7 gallons of gas in my Saturn SL - I have never gone below 1/4 tank, even when gas prices were reasonable.

It would be nice to live close to work, but that just isn’t possible for everyone, especially when you’re married and two people have jobs to try to live near, or when you have a very specialized field.

Of course our gas prices aren’t the highest in the world, but they have increased exponentially - just wait until winter hits and it costs more to heat our homes.

I was going to vote for the SPLOST in Cobb, until I realized that it will add even more to our gas prices, as the sales tax is included in the price per gallon - so a gallon will go up 2 - 3 cents each just for taxes!

By AAAHHHHHHHHH!

August 16, 2005 01:10 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2002 Hyundai Sante Fe. Live in Norcross, work in Buckhead. Filled up Sunday at the QT on Mtn Ind and it cost $35. Luckily, my direct boss lets a lot of us work from home some days so really only make the commute 3-4 days a week. If people are stretching their $$$ so tightly that they can’t (or won’t) drive to see FAMILY or FRIENDS then methinks there are other things besides the price of gas that are more important to them (like LIQUOR and CIGARETTES). We are not talking about an astronomical aggregate increase here. What a bunch of whiners/cheapskates.

By Justin

August 16, 2005 01:12 PM | Link to this

I drive an Audi A4.

$36.00

Once a week.

I’m trying to accomplish all of my errands in one trip to avoid starting and stopping the car so many times. I’m also looking at www.georgianavigator.com more often to find the least conjested route through the city. I wish more companies allowed telecommuting!

By Ken

August 16, 2005 01:16 PM | Link to this

I have a 2005 Toyota Tundra I get 16 miles to the gallon and it hold 26 galons. That is about 66.00 a fill up. Man it really hurts

By Jamie P.

August 16, 2005 01:17 PM | Link to this

I am a Real Estate Appraiser, so I have to drive a lot, sometimes as much as 300 miles in a day. I have a 2003 Chrysler Sebring that gets about 25 mpg on average, but a fill up is now about $35. I can write off mileage on my taxes, but I can’t pass the actual cost on to my clients, so it’s coming out of my pocket. At almost double the price of a year ago, it hurts.

By AD

August 16, 2005 01:19 PM | Link to this

I have a Motorhome which averages as most do 8 MPG. Its tank holds 60 gallons. We still enjoy it but have cut way back on distance in our travels, preferring to visit our State parks right here in Ga to save the gas money.

By It's still cheaper than Europe

August 16, 2005 01:19 PM | Link to this

AFTER ADJUSTING FOR INFLATION, WE ARE STILL PAYING LESS FOR GAS PER GALLON THAN WE WERE IN 1974. IF THE PRICE OF GAS WERE ADJUSTED FOR INFLATION OVER THE PAST 30 YRS. WE’D BE PAYING ABOUT $5.00 PER GALLON TODAY, MUCH LIKE THE EUROPEANS PAY RIGHT NOW. I DRIVE A BIMMER AND AN INFINITI AND JUST LOOK AT FILLING UP AS APART OF LIFE. SITTING AROUND THE HOUSE NOT DRIVING BECAUSE OF THE PRICE OF GASOLINE IN NOT AN OPTION!

By lin

August 16, 2005 01:23 PM | Link to this

I drive a 99 toyota. doesn’t guzzle gas. I don’t go anywhere except where necessary. If this nation is to save on energy consumption: Employers need to send more people home to work. Live closer to work or find job closer to home. Use alternative forms of transportation: walk, bicycle, motorcycle or something called a Rhoades vehicle - look up on web for more information. Purchase in bulk so to reduce repeated trips to the store during your pay cycle. Carpool; take turns with people who go your way. Public transportation if you can. Instead of driving somewhere on the lunch hour, walk or have food catered in so not to negatively impact the restaurant industry. Take your lunch to work. Employers should ensure that there is a refrigerator and microwaves available. We need to come up with plans to ensure economic survival until alternative forms of energy our marketed or the ME gets the message. This isn’t entirely due to supply/demand. Send a message to the ME that Americans will not bow down to their political manipulation. We survived world wars living on a shoestring and we will do it again.

By beach bum

August 16, 2005 01:24 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Mustang convertible and it now cost $40 to fill the tank - no more cruising with the top down days. I plan all my errands for Sat morning and map out the trip. I was going to drive to Florida for the upcoming holiday in Sept but now I have decided to fly - it will be a cheaper trip!

By Joe

August 16, 2005 01:24 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1999 Nissan Altima. Prior to the gas price hike within the last couple of days, it was costing me on average $30 a day to fill up; I am sure now it will go up to at least $37 to fill up. My round trip to work is 25 miles. I normally fill up once a week, but twice a week if I go out of town. However I haven’t been going out of town to see family & friends as often due to gas being so high. My apartment lease is up in April, I am absolutely moving closer to a Marta station in Midtown or Buckhead, to take the train to my office in Sandy Springs. Hopefully that will help me out a little bit, so I can go down to see my family more.

By Wrenn

August 16, 2005 01:24 PM | Link to this

Eric with the H2 you are breaking my heart…Gas prices are ridiculous and instead of leveling off, they are constantly going up…i can’t figure out why gas stations in the same vicinity have the audacity to charge more for the same dang gas…

I have a Acura CL 03 and i am putting gas in my car it seems every other day…On the weekends if i’m not working the vehicle doesn’t move much…

But really to offset the gas prices you could cut out that extra trip to the movies or eating out, your life doesn’t have to take that drastic of a change does it that is if you don’t have kids i’m referring to the singles posting on this joint!

By tara

August 16, 2005 01:24 PM | Link to this

I drive a dodge durango…..whew, its killing me. The SUV is a gas guzzler, you can literally see the gas hand go down as your moving and god forbid if the AC is on. I am spending roughly $300.00 per month (another car note). I am seriously considering trading down or trading for a hybrid.

By gil

August 16, 2005 01:28 PM | Link to this

Luckily, I can commute to work via the train. This is not good, as it will have a ripple effect across the whole economy eventually. People are going to cut back on dining out, shopping, etc. EVERY body will suffer.

By P

August 16, 2005 01:28 PM | Link to this

2000 Honda Civic

I spent $13.25 last night and it was only half of the tank. Yikes! That used to fill it up.

The gas prices definitely make me consider driving extra places, but I haven’t stopped yet. Just started thinking about it. I can’t believe it is $2.50 a gallon for 87 octane.

By larry

August 16, 2005 01:35 PM | Link to this

I spent $ 126.00 to fill up 2-cars this past week. That’s what it takes for me every week to keep my business going $ 1,018.00 a month for gas. I can’t increase the price of my products like to oil compaines or I will go out of business. Where is it going to Stop? We need to have a National Gas out day and maybe we could get some attention.

By Shermaine

August 16, 2005 01:35 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 4-wheel drive (all the time). It cost $63 to fill up my tank two days ago. I use the middle nozzle because it’s better for the Jeep than regular. I am fortunate b/c I live inside the perimeter and my job is 2 miles from my home, so I fill up about every 10 days. Living in Dunwoody near Perimeter mall is an advantage b/c I don’t have to go too far for any necessities. But boy, when I HAVE to go more than 10 miles out of my, it has to be a really good reason, otherwise, it won’t get done.

By Eirik

August 16, 2005 01:40 PM | Link to this

I fill my Nissan pickup about every three weeks and it costs me about 30 dollers. I bike to work and use my motorcycle when I need to pick up a few things at the store. I fill up my motorcycle about every two months for about 10 dollers. People in this country are spoiled. Europeans have been dealing with this for years. I feel for the people driving economy cars but you people paying $500.00 a month to fill up your gas guzzling SUVs deserve no sympathy.

By San

August 16, 2005 01:40 PM | Link to this

Driving home from work yesterday in the 90 degree heat I counted the cars with their windows down. Out of 16 cars at the ramp, only 4 of us had our windows down trying to conserve gas. And 7 of the other vehicles, with windows rolled tight and air conditioning blowing, were SUV’s.

By Chuck

August 16, 2005 01:42 PM | Link to this

I drive to work in a Sable everyday from Lilburn in Gwinnett County to Athens. That’s exactly 100 miles per day, roundtrip. It’s costing me right at $280 per month. It’s having serious impact on my pocket book. Americans need to wake up and start fighting back a little. If everyone would simply keep their car home at least one day per week, the price of gas would plummet. You can’t wait for the other guy to do it. You have to do it.

By Amos

August 16, 2005 01:43 PM | Link to this

FOR SALE: 2003 DODGE RAM

GREAT CONDITION, NICE LOOKING, 10-15 Mpg LIKE A MARRIAGE, IT WAS A VERY GOOD TRUCK IN THE BEGINNING!!! ENOUGH SAID……?

By ruth

August 16, 2005 01:45 PM | Link to this

I drive a Honda Civic Hybrid. Get about 37-40mpg. I fill up about every 12 days. Sounds good? Yeah, but I’m still paying the big “per gallon” prices as everyone else, and I’m pretty nervous about the direction fuel costs are going. My economizing on type of vehicle, less ‘fun driving’, and changing my thermostat at home make life a little more feasable for right now, but where are we headed?

By JT

August 16, 2005 01:51 PM | Link to this

I unforunately have 2 suv’s.. an expedition and explorer. The last fill up cost me almost $100 for both cars.. I live in West Cobb but work @ the top end perimeter .. My husband works new Emory … GAS PRICES ARE KILLING US. I no longer go anywhere except work and back and shop only at the stores in my community.

By QBrand

August 16, 2005 01:51 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2003 Dodge Neon and it costs about 20-23.00 a week to fill up. I haven’t changed my habits. I work in McDonough & live in Jonesboro and I travel to dwntwn Atl about 2-3 times a week for church services, activities/events, etc. I did expect the prices to go up for gas, so I try not to fuel up while in dwntwn, which appears to have higher prices. I like to drive and decided to just budget so that I can still do some of the things I like. I might mention as well that I’m a full time college student and single parent but I still live at home where rent is not as high if I lived on my own. So there are some benefits to offset my gas expenditures.

By Sherri

August 16, 2005 01:51 PM | Link to this

This is the pits!!! I drive 100 miles each day, to and from work. I recently bought a newer, more fuel efficient car. Wanted to go Hybrid but can’t afford it. We bought a Toyota Matrix, manual and gas is still killing me. We don’t do any special trips anywhere because we have a special needs child who may need a trip to the hospital at any time. You never know! Anyway, I plan on asking my boss if I can telecommute 2 days a week. My husband, thankfully, works from home!

By The Bland

August 16, 2005 01:54 PM | Link to this

1990 honda accord. i spend 35.00 to fill my gas tank up. my husband drive a savana and it take him $70.00 to fill it up. we’re thinking about getting bike with seat for our childs or ride the train. lololo this is crazy.

By Lee

August 16, 2005 01:54 PM | Link to this

I drive a corolla which gets great gas mileage. Also my commute is short so I’d only fill up twice every three weeks or so. But now, since it is a short commute I walk when I can (of course this rain makes it a bit tricky). Just to save a little more

By Héctor Fernández L'Hoeste

August 16, 2005 01:55 PM | Link to this

We have two cars with four cylinder engines: a CR-V and a VW Cabrio. They each cost around $25 per fill-up, which we do once a week. We will change the CR-V for a Prius (or Civic hybrid) within a year. Gas prices will go through the roof; there’s no way back (thanks to the Chinese and Indian markets). People should wake up and realize how easy we’ve had it in comparison to the rest of the world. Either we switch our energy paradigm or our economy will crash in the future. Gas will break the $5 mark within years, so people should stop complaining and adjust to a new reality.

By Nancy

August 16, 2005 01:56 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2001 Kia Optima. It cost me $33 last time I filled up. I usually fill up once a week.I will be filling up today and the gas is at least 15 cents higher than the last time. I’m not looking forward to it. I work out of my home, but routinely drive 30 miles roundtrip every day to pick up by boyfriend from work, since he works until after MARTA closes. I’ve always multi-tasked my errands, but traveling to visit family is becoming difficult, as they are all 500+ miles away and none are near major air hubs. The US will have a difficult time following the European model since our country is huge and our major cities spread out from one another, with only NYC, Chicago, San Francisco & Boston having passible mass transit systems. MARTA doesn’t even come close. Look for the SUV going the way of the giant gas-guzzlers of the 1950s within the next year, with manufacturers closing their SUV-only plants very soon now.

By Felicia

August 16, 2005 01:57 PM | Link to this

I was driving an Expedition, transporting two kids to daycare and it cost about $53 to fill up. I have resorted to our weekend vehicle, Volkswagon Beetle, now saving about $20/week.

By Rocky Davis

August 16, 2005 01:58 PM | Link to this

I drive a mini van Ford Winstar. It cost me $56.oo to fill up the last time. The cost has made a huge impact on my monthly budget. It seems to be a game to play with gas prices through speculation. The gas companies are making huge profits and say it’s because they are operating more efficiently (who are they fooling) and the politicians are saying a lack of refineries (Well, who’s fault is that and why haven’t they) This is a game to raise prices so high that they’ll never be able to go low again. We’ll see small spikes going down but never again to where they were.

By JB

August 16, 2005 01:58 PM | Link to this

First of all, AJC, remember that the real ‘inflation adjusted’ record gas price would be $3.05 per gallon in 1981…that is, unless I can still get a house in Sandy Springs for $130,000…anyway…

What I think is really interesting is this…the past several years all you hear from the ‘left’ enviomentalists is that we should conserve energy, combine trips, limit driving, walk to the store, buy efficient cars…and all we have done is demand more power and kept the MPG the same… Turns out all it really takes is bringing prices up to European levels to convince everyone to take part in saving energy. But now that prices are high, and everyone is talking about combining trips, limmiting driving, walking to the store and buying efficient cars, all the lefts want to do is WHINE about how much gas costs!! Does anyone else out there see the hypocracy? Would some of you lefties out there like to comment on which way it’s going to be? Do you want cheap gas, or do you want people to ‘save the planet’? One or the other, ya can’t have it both ways.

By rixxi

August 16, 2005 01:58 PM | Link to this

I use public transportation to get to work during the week and only use my car on the weekends for errands. This past weekend I asked myself did I want to use the car’s AC as that would cause it to use more fuel. I decided not to use the AC in order to conserve fuel and of course I sweated like a pig. I sat in the car wishing I could use that perspiration to fuel the vehicle.

By Douglas

August 16, 2005 02:02 PM | Link to this

I drive a 96 Chevy Cavalier. I live in McDonough and work in Norcross. I also go to school in Griffin. Five days a week I put 104 miles on my car!!! Today (Tuesday), I filled up and I spent $29.50 just to fill up a half of tank. This is just ridiculus!

By kristin

August 16, 2005 02:05 PM | Link to this

I think if you are driving luxury vehicles and cannot afford to fill the tank, well you should have invested in a more economical vehicle. My Focus my not be the sportiest car on the road, but the cost to keep it there is within my budget. My personality is big enough, I don’t need my car to define it.

By ~ART~

August 16, 2005 02:06 PM | Link to this

I don’t own a car. I ride the bus.

I rented a car a few weeks ago, ‘gotta love Enterprise’s $9.95/day weekend rates, and spent $40+ on filling the tank from 1/4 full

Luckily I only have to buy gas once every 4 or 5 months.

By jennifer

August 16, 2005 02:07 PM | Link to this

When it starting taking $32 to fill up a Chevy Cavalier….going OUT for entertainment stopped sometime ago. I stay at home with my kids and took up gardening!!

By Ksmith

August 16, 2005 02:10 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2002 Arora. It’s about $32/week to drive to and from work (that’s with no trips to Wal-Mart, Goodies or any other shops). The gas prices must be hurting the retail stores as well. Can’t afford to drive to the store or if I do I will not have any money left to spend once I get there. A group of co-workers and myself started a car-pool this week. Our little way of fighting back!

By Hatin' Gas

August 16, 2005 02:11 PM | Link to this

I was just looking online at gas prices in the southeast. Georgia, which is usually cheaper than around the country is higher than than the entire southeast. Florida is around $2.30, which is what appears to be the average in NC, SC, TN, MS and Al. :( We are on the pipeline. What can ya do?

By Ken

August 16, 2005 02:12 PM | Link to this

If everyone here actually does what they are saying — just think of how much better our traffic situation and air quality would be. Carpool. Public transit. Consume less. Less cars = less pollutants. We’re saving our own money and we’re putting less in the oil company coffers. Sounds like a good plan all around.

By Donna A

August 16, 2005 02:16 PM | Link to this

I live in Kingsland Ga and work in Brunswick. It is almost 100 miles a day to drive not counting the driving I do for my job. Currently have to fill up 3 times a week. About $26 to fill it up. I have a state job and this is getting out of hand. Gonna have to quit and find something paying less to make ends meet with gas the way it is.

By Pat

August 16, 2005 02:21 PM | Link to this

I think while everyone is naming the types of vehicles you’re driving each of you as well as myself should be thinking of how to protest this insanity! When oil companies can continue to boast of their huge profits, THERE IS NO OIL SHORTAGE!!! I realize we have jobs and need to continue to earn a living, but once again we’re being taken advantage of by the powers that be. Prices will continue to go up until WE say ENOUGH!!

By EO

August 16, 2005 02:25 PM | Link to this

CARPOOL, CARPOOL, CARPOOL…that is the only way I am going to have any money for Christmas presents this year! $35 to fill up my Honda Accord.

The Clean Air Campaign is paying for some of my gas. $20/mth since there are 3 of us that ride together. Also, our new carpooler gets $180 since she did drive alone. It is nice…I only have to drive one out of every three weeks.

By Brenda

August 16, 2005 02:26 PM | Link to this

In December of 1999, I bought a 2000 Prius. I still have it. I’m getting about 46 mpg and it has about 184,000 miles without a significant problem. I drive 75 miles, one-way, between home and work.

I haven’t changed how I live. Since my house is paid for, I’m not moving closer to work. And my spouse has an incurable, progressive, neurological disease with medications costing about $1,600/month, so I’m not changing jobs, for a job closer to home, because the job I have has excellent insurance.

By Bridget

August 16, 2005 02:26 PM | Link to this

My boyfriend spent at least $1,000 in fuel last month. He just started a construction company with multiple large vehicles for various job sites. They all require large amounts of fuel. Plus, he just purchased his own personal vehicle which was a new F-150 truck that alone costs $65 to fill up. Now we cut back on fine dining, taking weekend trips and are putting off building a house for now. Carpooling and Marta can’t help this situation.

By Allison

August 16, 2005 02:29 PM | Link to this

I drive a Toyota 4-Runner. It costs me about $39 to fill up. I am a young professional and can’t afford to drive anywhere. Luckily my job allows me the opportunity to telework. I also have signed up with The Clean Air Campaign and I am earning $3 a day just for staying home and working from home. When I do have to drive into work, the extra $3 a day really pays off. But still, something needs to be done about the rising gas prices or I’m going to go broke!

By J

August 16, 2005 02:36 PM | Link to this

I drive a 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. Last time I filled up before I went out of town it was $40+ to fill up. It would be even more now. I’ve already been noticing less fuel efficiency since the car is a few years old - a full tank only gets me about 200 miles! So these prices are killing me. I used to drive up to the mountains for the weekend on occasion. That’s a thing of the past. I take Marta to work and I do little else that’s far from home. Bush and his supporters are pocketing a heaping helping of profit during his last term. There’s no coincidence here.

By Mikki

August 16, 2005 02:41 PM | Link to this

I drive a big ol gas guzzling 2000 Ford Expedition. I drive about 35 miles round trip daily. When I filled up last week (at Walmart) it cost me $63.03! I have been dreading filling up this week because the prices are even higher.

I consolidate trips as much as possible. Now I do my shopping at the stores on my daily route instead of going out of my way for a deal. It’s not really a deal if I have to waste 4 or 5 gallons of gas to get there. Also, I’ve cut out buying breakfast (at least 4 times a week) in the mornings. I carry cereal and milk to work for my breakfast.

I’m also considering a hybrid or at least a small SUV like a CRV, Mariner or Escape.

By Suzan

August 16, 2005 02:41 PM | Link to this

I have a ‘99 Dodge Durango that gets 13 MPG. I checked out buying something less expensive, but I figured it would take me about 8 years to recoup my losses. The Durango doesn’t leave the garage except for in-town trips (kids & grandkids) and groceries. We’ve had to cut back on eating out, going to movies, etc., because the expense of the gas cuts into that part of our budget. By the way, BP Petroleum posted a 56% profit for the last quarter.

By C.L.

August 16, 2005 02:43 PM | Link to this

I have a 2005 Saturn Ion I just filled my tank (it had 1/4 in it) and spent $24.00. This is very expensive for me!!! I live in Cobb county and work in Midtown. MARTA hear my cry and move out to the west side of town.

By veronica

August 16, 2005 02:44 PM | Link to this

i think the gas prices are ridiculous and it is very hard for single parents and the low income. For one gas is becoming another bill for you. You are working to pay for gas to put in your car. We will never see 1.00 per gallon for unleaded gas. They are raising prices to see how much people will settle for .

By Alice Rolls

August 16, 2005 02:49 PM | Link to this

I drive my Cannondale Touring bike! I do own a car, Honda Accord 94, but find that I opt for my bicycle more and more for the health and pocketbook benefits. I fill up my gas tank no more than once a month. Fortunately, I live intown and can ride relatively safely through neighborhoods to work, friends and shopping. Riding a bike is a total joy and every time I saddle up, I’m cutting definite costs - an added incentive.

By Theresa Guy

August 16, 2005 02:51 PM | Link to this

I own a 1994 Chevrolet Lumina. Today I spent 25.00 dollars while filling up at lunch and it only put 8 gallons in my tank. I fortunately only live 8 miles from my work. A co-worker is also my next door neighbor so we car pool alot. I live in Sandy Springs so I can walk to the grocery store and to several business for my necessities. I don’t know what I would do if I lived in pedestrian unfriendly counties of Cobb or Gwinett. The train isn’t far and that helps. It is way past time to consider alternate fuel sources. My next car purchase will probably be a hybrid.

By Jan

August 16, 2005 02:53 PM | Link to this

I drive a Toyota Prius. It cost me $25 to fill it up which lasts me at least two weeks of normal driving (about 35 miles a day). It’s a great little car - best investment I’ve made in a long time!

By Brenda

August 16, 2005 02:55 PM | Link to this

Gas Prices. I drive an ‘04 Altima from Conyers to Clairmont road daily. I have to fill up twice a week at $41 each time. Last week I put $10 in my car, drove home, ran into an accident…..empty tank again. I wish there was a train from Conyers!

By Liz at Perimeter Transportation Coalition

August 16, 2005 02:56 PM | Link to this

I chose to live near work because I currently rent an apartment and it makes sense, both financially and time-wise to rent closer and decrease my car insurance as well as time spent sitting in traffic. I drive a MINI, but only fill up on average every two-three weeks.

I work for a Transportation Management Association (TMA) in the Perimeter business district. There are 8 TMAs in Atlanta who work with the Clean Air Campaign and the Atlanta Regional Commission’s 187-RIDEFIND division as well as other local transportation or community organizations.

We all work toward three common goals: reducing Atlanta’s traffic, increasing mobility and access which helps boost our local economy, and improving our air quality.

We do this by offering employers programs to help them help their employees. We also help employees by offering them ridematching services for carpooling and vanpooling, a Guaranteed Ride Home in case of an emergency, Effective Cycling classes, as well as incentives or rewards for doing something other than driving alone.

If you work in the Perimeter business area, visit www.perimetergo.org to find out more information about Commuter Rewards. Work elsewhere? Visit www.cleanaircampaign.com.

Let’s all try to do our part to make our lives a little less stressful, while saving some money, and improving our air quality. If taking an alternative to driving alone just isn’t an option for you, please visit the Clean Air Campaign’s website for other ways you can help yourself and your community.

By Steve

August 16, 2005 03:01 PM | Link to this

I drive a Grand Am GT, Ram Air Fuel Injected V6. It seems to get like 5 miles to the gallon unless I am on the highway. I am spending more on gas than my insurance costs! It is killing me, & taking a huge chunk out of my budget! Am I changing any driving habits—-nope. Hard headed Greek here! LOL!

By jennifer

August 16, 2005 03:04 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1994 Mazda MX-6.

The last time I filled up it cost around $35.00 at $2.89/gal.

I live in Midtown and work off of Howell Mill so I fill up about once each week. That includes errands.

Nope, I’m not making any driving changes. I’m just glad I don’t have to fill up an SUV or other huge vehicle.

By Melvin

August 16, 2005 03:05 PM | Link to this

I have to gas up four vehicles. I don’t go anywhere now without necessity, and I’ve stretched most refills to two or three weeks. I fill up when half empty to hold down cost for each tank. I also ride MARTA to downtown to work and favor nationalization of the oil and gas industry.

By MARTA IS SMARTA AFTER ALL..

August 16, 2005 03:08 PM | Link to this

For folks who can,get your stuck up butt on that IRON HORSE(MARTA) as we call it in newyork you’ll live. people down here can be so Aloof!…

By Confused

August 16, 2005 03:08 PM | Link to this

If people made these changes to their driving habits 10 years ago, we may not be in the situation we are all in now! Why are there still 4 or 5 Hummers in the Target parking lot every time I go by? I’ll bet that the same people who are complaining about gas prices are the same ones that don’t bat an eyelash at buying a purse or a pair of jeans for more than $200.

By QG

August 16, 2005 03:09 PM | Link to this

2000 Lexus GS300

$46.75 last night premium only.

Recently I’ve been filling up once a week. Luckily I’m able to telecommute a few days a week, which saves quite a bit on fuel. My offices are in Duluth and Vinings…I live in Alpharetta.

By SSLT

August 16, 2005 03:09 PM | Link to this

I used to drive - due to a hideous repair bill I was forced to give up my car. Fortunately though I am in the position where I can cycle into work. I’m not thinking of buying another car because as in the USA, gas prices are rising in the UK too and Jason Cairns, we do complain about it. Granted we pay a hefty tax on top of the crazy oil companies price but the bottom line is I’m sick of paying a lot of money to people who don’t really deserve it. With the money I’m saving by not having a car (insurance, tax, gas) I can use it to my own benefit.

I’m lucky that I can do this. Having been to Atlanta many times I realize that, unless you are ITP, you’re pretty much stuck without a car. Unless you can car pool/use MARTA/ride a motorbike or scooter, what other choice do you have? I’d be complaining to anyone that would listen if our gas prices rose the equivalent as much as yours have recently.

By Dee-Dee

August 16, 2005 03:13 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1997 Suzuki Esteem, about the same size and style of a Honda Civic. The last time I filled up it cost $26 bucks, compared to about $13 a year ago. Luckily, my commute for the Cascade/Fairburn Rd. area is only 20 minutes.
Ride MARTA? I don’t think so. I’ve ridden MARTA about 18 of my 30 years on this Earth, and I would rather pay $5.00 a gallon than have to be around those crazies, ignorant people on MARTA. And judging from the number of cars still on the roadways, I’m not the only one who feels that way.

By Anita

August 16, 2005 03:17 PM | Link to this

ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH This is absolutely ridiculous! I was talking to a lady that works at a Chevron station this morning and she said they’ve already been warned that it will prob be $3.50 - $4 by this CHRISTMAS! I drive a Kia Sorento (or did last week!) It’s now been parked since Friday. It has a full tank of gas but I can’t stand the thought of having to fill it up when it is empty again! The car pymt is not bad and the gas mileage is approx 18. It could be worse! I’ve been considering trading it in, but I’ll lose my butt — I’m already upside down and they won’t give me near what value is…..

I’m now driving hubby’s Kia Optima (30mpg) — Thank God, he has a company furnished vehicle (and gas card!!)

I have to drive from Rome to Cartersville for work everyday (M-F) — telecomuting is not an option.

this is really scary!! Everybody keeps saying “just wait till the next election…” well, duh! He can’t be re-elected AGAIN! Thank God But who is to say we’ll be better off w the next Pres?

By Kandace

August 16, 2005 03:18 PM | Link to this

I drive a Yukon XL- I commute to work 30 miles a day. it cost me $62.00 every time I fill up the gas tank. Why do some gas stations charge more than others? These gas stations know that we all have to drive somehwere whether you work or not so they can charge whatever they want and not lose business. When will this madness end? It cost me $22.00 more each time than it used too!

By Alex

August 16, 2005 03:21 PM | Link to this

I drive a 1996 Honda Civic- on a recent road trip it got about 35 miles to the gallon.

I live two miles from my office; most days I walk to work.

I fill my tank so seldom that I don’t even remember what I paid last time. The tank holds 10.5 gallons, so I guess I paid $20-$25 (plus $3 for the car wash!!!)

I am so grateful to be able to live close to work- and close to everything. We seldom drive more than a couple of miles to get anywhere. I do have sympathy for people who live in the ‘burbs due to financial or family needs- but have no sympathy at all for SUV drivers!!

Still, though, we pay less for gas, and have for decades, than just about anyone else in the world. Maybe we, as a culture, can embrace the idea of “conservation”.

By Ub

August 16, 2005 03:23 PM | Link to this

I drive a ‘97 Explorer V8 — gas guzzler all the way. It holds 20 gallons but I haven’t bought a $50 tank yet (or $60, or $70…). My record’s $45, set a couple of weeks ago.

I figured out months ago that I get 20 mpg at 70 mpg but 25 at 55. So I’ve been going 55 in the right lane to get an extra 80-100 miles out of a tank. It’s more relaxing too because SUVs have terrible handling and weak braking, which I really notice since my previous vehicle was a sports car.