Gas prices hit record highs in San Diego

Prices pressure students to re-evaluate their driving habits

SALENA CHACON / ASST. NEWS EDITOR / THE USD VISTA

Gas prices in San Diego hit a record high this month. According to AAA gas prices, the highest gas price recorded in San Diego occurred on Oct. 5, when gas reached an average of $6.43 per gallon. This time last year, gas prices were reported at an average of $4.37 per gallon, which is over $2 less.

USD sophomore commuter Arissa Lelevier is aware of the increase in gas prices and changed some of her driving habits to reduce gas use. 

“I try to carpool more with friends to try to save up on gas. I’m definitely conscious of it and I try not to drive as much,” Lelevier said. “I don’t go back home in the middle of the day because of the gas prices. It just makes more sense to stay here.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom placed the blame for high prices on oil companies. 

“Oil companies are ripping you off,” Newsom wrote in a Tweet. “Their record profits are coming at your expense at the pump.” 

In a short video message attached to the Tweet, Newsom emphasized how California gas prices are much higher compared to the rest of the U.S. He also mentioned taking measures to reduce the prices, such as a windfall tax, or higher tax, on oil companies and an early start to using cheaper winter blend gas. According to GasBuddy, winter blend gas is used during the winter months to help during the cold weather, and its production is less expensive than the summer gasoline. 

Another potential cause for the increase in gas prices is the shutdown of several oil refineries, due to unpredictable circumstances, financial troubles or maintenance. These refineries convert crude oil into the gas put into cars. With fewer refineries, the demand for gas cannot always be met, which raises the price of gas. According to the New York Times, however, these shutdowns should be temporary. 

Newsom announced a plan in late August of this year to push toward electric car use, negating the need for gas altogether. The Office of the Governor wrote, “We can solve this climate crisis if we focus on the big, bold steps necessary to cut pollution. California now has a groundbreaking, world-leading plan to achieve 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035.”

The primary appeal for electric cars is because it’s meant to save gas money for California residents, but another factor is its sustainability. 

Magali Rodriguez, a USD sophomore commuter, drives a hybrid car. She noticed that she is not as concerned about gas prices as other students. 

“Having a hybrid does totally lower the cost. I haven’t been really feeling the brunt of the increase in gas prices,” Rodriguez said. 

For students who don’t drive an electric car, the idea of switching is a big decision. USD sophomore Katie Temple recognizes that electric vehicles are more environmentally friendly than a regular gas-run car, but the cost of buying a new car is not feasible. 

“I would consider it. It’s not financially in the realm of things, but I definitely think electric cars are making more of a statement now and are definitely a smarter decision,” Temple said.

Lelevier holds the same sentiment.

“I definitely would [switch to an electric car], it’s just expensive to get a new car. Right now I drive an old car that I inherited,” Lelevier said. “Because I have to pay for my own expenses, I wouldn’t do it right now. I’m literally going to drive this car till it dies.”

Rodriguez questions the safety concerns that come with driving an electric vehicle. 

“I think a part of being a woman is always being hyper aware of your safety,” Rodriguez expressed. “The only reason I wouldn’t switch is because, in the case of an emergency, putting in gas is so much easier than waiting a few hours to recharge. Maybe if it becomes that there’s more charging outlets in more locations, but I just wouldn’t want to be in a vulnerable situation and not know where I can charge my car nearby.”

Female students, such as Rodriguez and Lelevier, mentioned that alternatives to gas cars can be unsafe. Lelevier is also wary of public transportation, as it can be dangerous at night. Even though using public transportation or switching to an electric vehicle are more  environmentally responsible options, safety is a concern for many USD students. 

Students like Temple feel that the benefits of having a car on campus, like the accessibility and safety it ensures, outweigh the cost.

“I’m happy to have [my car] here,” Temple said. But definitely the cost factor is a bummer.”

USD students continue to hope that gas prices will decrease, but for now use carpooling and reduce the amount they drive to save on gas. If gas prices remain high, commuters and those with a car on campus may have to consider another mode of transportation, such as riding a bus or train. By making the switch, it would be cost beneficial and sustainable.