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3-On Your Side: Gas Prices On The Rise

By Jim Donovan

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- As if you needed another hit on your wallet after all of that holiday spending, prices at the gas pump are back on the rise.

3 On Your Side consumer reporter Jim Donovan joins us with the details.

This is usually the time of year that we can get a break at the pump. Well not this year.

January isn't traditionally a month associated with high gas prices.

"Gasoline prices as well as gasoline demand is usually at its lowest in december and january. Things begin to pick up and take off and pick up as we approach the warmer weather months and the spring, March, April and May and of course, the summer driving season," said Troy Green with AAA.

But right now, factors impacting the worldwide market for crude oil like worries about Iran that are pushing prices higher.

According to AAA, the nationwide average for a regular gallon of gas started this week at $3.37, 9 cents higher than last week and almost 30 cents higher than one year ago.

AAA says consumers will usually find the best prices where there's competition.

"If you have many gasoline stations within a short radius, you're going to see prices that are probably a little bit less than areas that have less competition," said Green

AAA says ease up on aggressive driving, avoid stops and starts. It's not only safer, you'll maximize your fuel economy too.

Also it's a good time to reduce the weight of your car by taking unnecessary items out of the trunk, now that holiday road trips are behind you.

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