How come higher gas prices isn't causing Americans to drive slower on the roads and highways?

Question

Speeders and fast drivers are a major pet peeve of mine (I admit that I drive slower than a little old lady on her way to the Bingo hall, but I get great gas mileage in my Ford Focus).

But, one benefit of the high gas prices is that it might improve safety by getting people to slow down to conserve gas. (slower speeds = better fuel economy).

Or so I thought, because one thing I've noticed is that Americans don't seem interested in easing off the accelerator to save gas in their vehicles.

I hear a lot of people squawking and b-tching about the high prices at the pump, but people still buy their gas-guzzling SUVs, they still drive a quarter-mile to buy a gallon of milk, and they still put the pedal to the floor even when there's a red light 100 feet ahead.

Answer 1

So, where are your statistics to back up this claim?

Visual?  That's hardly a reliable method for your debate.

I have heard on the news that americans are driving less due to the prices...but I don't know where they get that data either.

Answer 2

Just maybe not every ones life revolves around the price of gas. I have not slowed down any. I'm not speeding all over the place either. But if your driving slower than the posted speed limit and causing traffic congestion around you. You need to think about other people besides yourself. Speed up or get out of the way. The price of gas will continue to rise. It always has. And slower speeds do not equal better fuel economy. And speaking of red lights. We would save considerable more gas if you do not have to stop from one light to the next.

Answer 3

Peoples' time is valuable.

Answer 4

LOL!  You got that right!  I agree completely.  Slow down folks, it will save gas; BUT here is something that EVERYONE NEEDS.  As socially responsible people, we should all use BPI Bio-Petro Improver!  I am personally (along thousands more) on a mission to get this awesome product in the tanks of as many as possible!  Reduce harmful tail pipe emissions, save on gas or diesel EVERY SINGLE TIME you stop at the pump, go farther on the gas in your tank, make money (possibly even some serious money!  This is just what we need at a time like this!  

I still agree 100% on the slow down and conserve!

Answer 5

I never drove 55 mph back when that was forced on us unless I saw a cop.I usually do the limit when it's reasonable.I will pass you in a second.

Speed up before you cause an accident.

Driving slower wastes time which is at least as valuable as a few cents of gas.

Answer 6

Because people need something to complain about so why drive slow.......

Answer 7

From what I've seen, I consistantly drive 75mph, but it doesn't seem like as many people are flying by me at 80+mph. Actually, 75mph seems to be keeping up with traffic on the freeways here in Michigan.

Though, I agree with you in a part. The people who are complaining the most are the ones that are driving Escalade EXT's, Suburbans, and Excursions doing 85mph, and expecting to get 40mpg from them. They're usually the same people with a phone in one hand, coffee in the other and nobody else in the car. Mercedes and BMW drivers are also in this group too.

Answer 8

Slow drivers are also a hazard ... they think they are safe drivers because they don't often get into accidents ... What they don't realize is that they CAUSE accidents. That being said , if we all drove slower .. we might save a bit on gas .

Answer 9

your car is designed to get the best fuel economy at 55-60mph. [highway speeds]  it's the hard accelerating that really burns up your gas.

also, i agree with that ed guy.  going too slow could cause an accident.  go with the flow of traffic, whether its above or below the speed limit.

and finally, i dont think people care about flooring it to a stop sign, and speeding up and slowing down quickly.... because they dont think about how much more it costs them in the long term.. . they think that stepping on that gas a little harder isnt gonna make any difference while they're driving. but add it up over time. and thats a whole tank.

Answer 10

i dont know but here in New Zealand petrols jsut gone through the roof