EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Diesel prices have reached a record high nationally, with drivers in El Paso saying the rising cost is forcing them to rethink when they fill up, how far they drive, and whether they can afford to take on extra work.

AAA reported the national average price for a gallon of diesel was about $6.05 Friday morning.

That is up from about $3.71 one year ago, a 63% increase, and up nearly 14% from about $5.32 last month.

Vicente Ramires said he typically spends about $200 each week to fuel his diesel vehicle, or roughly $800 a month.

“I know diesel is always going to be a little more than gas, but this is way too much,” Ramires said.

While filling up Friday, Ramirez said he was approaching the $100 limit on the pump but did not expect that amount to fill his tank.

“Right now I’m about to hit 100. That’s the max on the pump right here, and I bet you it’s not going to fill up all the way,” he said.

Pablo Acosta said higher diesel prices are also affecting the cost of running his business.

Destiny Venecia reports on rising diesel prices (Credit: KFOX14)

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He said he is now spending about $600 to $700 a week on diesel, compared with about $350 previously.

“The clients don’t want to pay more,” Acosta said. “I don’t think I can keep up with these prices.”

Andres Acosta said he has changed his fueling habits, putting diesel in his truck only when he has a job lined up.

“I got to pump whenever I get a job because if not, it’ll just be sitting there because it’s too expensive,” he said.

Other drivers said the higher prices are affecting personal travel as well.

Timothy Rodgers said he is limiting his driving to necessary trips.

“I can only go where I have to go,” Rodgers said. “I can’t go out to have fun, to go sightseeing or go tourism or down to the beach. That’s out of the question.”

Diesel is used by many trucks that move food and other goods.

Higher diesel costs can increase transportation expenses, which may add pressure to the cost of products reaching stores.

AAA’s national diesel average increased from $5.97 Thursday to $6.05 Friday.

Drivers KFOX14 spoke with said they hope prices begin to fall soon.

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