Fourth of July is coming, and drivers hitting the roads might get a patriotic gift of lower gas prices.
AAA says it expects to see the most cars on the road in seven years, with as many as 34.8 million Americans expected to drive 50 miles or more.
However, while gas prices might be coming off of some highs of recent weeks, this could still be the most expensive July 4 holiday since 2008.
“Market concerns about a supply disruption in Iraq are calming,” AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins said in a release. “The price of oil slipped last week, so motorists should begin go see some relief at the pump. However, the discount may only be a nickel.”
It was July 4, 2008, when gas prices were at the highest for the holiday, with the average cost for a gallon of gas in Florida topping $4.06. That was followed in 2011 with gas prices at $3.50 in Florida, and slowly dropped down to $3.43 last year.
This year, fuel prices are expected to hover around $3.63 in the state. While that might be 20 cents more than last year, it’s still a dime cheaper than what it was earlier in the year, Jenkins said.
“AAA doesn’t believe gas prices will keep people from traveling for the holiday,” he said. “Most plans have already been finalized and budgets allocated. If anything, travelers will cut back on costs in other areas like shopping, dining out or entertainment.”
