Gas Prices Keep Climbing in Riverside County, With No Relief in Sight

Riverside County drivers are paying $5.847 per gallon for regular gas as of this morning, a penny more than yesterday and five cents more than last week. Statewide, the average sits at $5.887. Over the past month alone, prices have surged more than $1.20, and experts say the pain isn't going away anytime soon.

California continues to hold the highest gas prices in the country, with recent global conflicts pushing costs even higher. For some drivers, the increases are cutting directly into their livelihoods. One Uber driver, who asked not to be identified on camera, says the current prices make it nearly impossible to turn a profit. "It's almost like doing a lot of these rides for, not free, but just enough almost to cover your gas," he said.

Experts say that while there's no foreseeable end to the price surge, there are steps drivers can take to stretch every gallon. Matt McLain of GasBuddy and Kandace Redd of AAA both pointed to driving habits as one of the biggest factors consumers can control. 

McLain says simply following the speed limit can lead to savings. "I know that sounds crazy, but it's 25% to 35% savings on fuel efficiency just with that one act," said McLain.

Redd noted that unless a car's manufacturer specifically recommends or requires premium fuel, it offers no real benefit over regular, and drivers are likely wasting money by defaulting to it. Redd urged drivers to look into discount programs through grocery store chains and credit cards, many of which offer fuel savings that often go unused.