Another Day, Another Hike In Gas Prices
The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in the Inland Empire rose today to its highest amount since Aug. 25, 2008, increasing 1.1 cents to $3.894.
The 34th increase in 35 days pushed the average price in Riverside and San Bernardino counties 13.6 cents higher than a week ago, 51.1 cents above what it was one month ago and 83.3 cents greater than it was one year ago, according to figures from the AAA and Oil Price Information Service.
The average price is 72 cents less than the record high of $4.614 set on June 22, 2008.
The statewide average price of $3.908 is the highest in the nation, 1.2 cents more than Hawaii, which is second. The nationwide average is $3.517.
Gasoline prices in California are typically among the highest in the nation because of taxes and a state law mandating a special blend of fuel to reduce emissions.
Analysts attribute the rising prices to increasing prices for imported crude oil stemming from concerns over the unrest in the Middle East and North Africa interrupting the flow of oil.
Crude oil costs account for two-thirds to three-quarters of the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to Tupper Hull of the Western States Petroleum Association, a trade association representing oil companies in six western states.
