With gas prices so high, how come Americans aren't slowing down to conserve gas?

Question

I work from home, but I only use my car every other day. I sometimes walk to the grocery store which is a mile away.

I also set the cruise control in my Ford Focus on the highway and leave it there. I go about 60 mph, but I still see people blowing by me, going 80 mph in a 65 mph zone (which is not only a stupid waste of gas, it's also risking a ticket).

I still see people speeding up to get to a stop light 100 feet ahead. I had one guy cut me off the other day to do this. He was driving about 5-10 mph faster than me as we were driving through city traffic. 5 blocks (5 miles) later, I was still even with him and honked/smiled at him as I passed by while he was preparing to make a left turn. He knew why I was smiling.

Why aren't Americans driving slower to increase their gas mileage? Why do people always feel they need to be going 10 mph faster than the next person? What's an extra 10 mph of speed gonna get you unless you're driving from Anchorage to Miami?

Answer 1

I have slowed down! And I have a very heavy foot, so this took some effort.

You're right though, lots of people are still blowing past me.

Answer 2

Because they are short sighted and selfish.

Answer 3

Because we are driving less and enjoying it more!

Get a life of your own, mine is not available for your use.

Answer 4

Old habits die hard,  but their habits will change eventually, when their wallets take a bigger and bigger hit.