ORLANDO, Fla. — Gas prices across Florida are climbing at the fastest rate in four years, jumping more than one dollar in just three weeks, according to AAA.

What You Need To Know

According to AAA, Florida gas prices have jumped more than $1 in three weeks

Drivers say they’re cutting back on travel and adjusting budgets

Mechanics say maintenance can improve fuel efficiency

AAA says driving habits can also help save money at the pump

As prices rise, drivers across Central Florida say they’re already feeling the impact.

“We used to be able to fill our cars up for a lot less. It’s so expensive now,” said Henry Fitzgerald, who was traveling for the weekend.

Fitzgerald said higher prices were forcing him to rethink how often he hits the road.

“It makes you think about how much you’re going to travel and where you’re going,” he said. “You have to take into account the extra gas price.”

For others, it’s not just travel plans, it’s everyday life.

“I have to budget my money differently,” said Jasmin Power, who travels for work. “Personally and on the job, I have to make sure that I’m using my usage correctly and staying where I can be as close to the practice as possible.” 

While rising prices are largely driven by global factors, experts say drivers still have some control over how much they spend at the pump.

Sal Ferrari, co-owner of Mahoney’s Auto Repair, said  vehicle maintenance plays a major role in fuel efficiency.

“If your A/C filter dirty, it’ll cause the engine to use more fuel,” Ferrari said. “If people are not maintaining their oil change intervals and they’re not using the correct grade of oil, that will cause the vehicle to consume more fuel as well.”

His advice is simple: “Just proper maintenance. That’s the bottom line is proper maintenance.”

According to AAA, driving habits also make a difference.

“Drive smoothly, avoid aggressive actions, starts and stops,” AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins said. “When your vehicle goes above 50 miles per hour, it begins to lose fuel efficiency.” 

AAA says drivers can improve fuel economy by adjusting how they drive, keeping up with maintenance, and planning ahead.

Gas prices are expected to continue to fluctuate in the coming days, depending on global oil prices. AAA encourages drivers to shop around for the best prices, take advantage of rewards programs, and use tools like its mobile app to find cheaper gas nearby.