Some drivers seeking workarounds as gas soars to highest prices in 4 years

Key Points:

• The national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline reached $4.30 on Thursday, marking the highest level in four years and an increase of $1.33 since the war in Iran began on February 28, driven by the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz amid U.S.-Iran tensions.
• Some gas stations, such as a Shell station in San Francisco, have raised prices significantly higher, with regular gas selling for as much as $7.15 a gallon, causing financial strain for many consumers who are now limiting how much gas they buy.
• Analysts predict gas prices could reach $4.50 per gallon soon and potentially set new records if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, as the ongoing stalemate in U.S.-Iran peace negotiations continues to pressure oil markets.
• Consumers in various states, including Ohio and Wisconsin, report difficulty affording gas, with some resorting to partial fills or alternative transportation methods due to rising costs and sticker shock.
• Public transit ridership has increased notably in parts of California, such as Monterey, where bus usage jumped 12.7% since the conflict began, with transit officials promoting it as a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative amid rising fuel prices.