LAFAYETTE, La. - Like many had already predicted gas prices have gone up as a result of the invasion on Ukraine from Russia.
According to AAA Americas national average for a gallon of gas is $3.84. It's been just over a week since Russia invaded Ukraine and before that the national average was $3.31.
In just one week the national gas price average has gone up .53 cents. Sara Tulli used to spend $20 at the pump.
"I drive a Chevy Malibu and it cost about $50 to fill up," said Tulli.
The cost of oil and gas is on an upward rise across the U.S. If the price keeps climbing some will be forced to car pool, get a bus ticket, ride a bike or even opt in to walk.
"I drive a truck, I drive a Nissan Titan and it cost me about $80 to fill up," said Lane.
Right here in Louisiana residents are paying a good $3.63 per gallon. Some states have it even worse, like in California, Oregon and Washington where consumers are going through "sticker shock." Its where consumers experience astonishment and dismay when informed about a product's unexpectedly high price.
What does this mean for you and your pockets financially?
"Oh man, that's going to be a big struggle, it's going to be pretty hard," said Lane.
A week ago Jay Lane spent $60 gassing up but today he spends $30 just getting a quarter tank. If he wants a full tank it'll cost over $100.
What are some of the things you might have to resort to if prices keep going up?
"I'll probably have to sell some things in order to afford gas, maybe sell some paintings or something to try and get something in my gas tank," said Lane.
What is your hope for gas prices?
"Hopefully at some point they'll start to decrease because when I first started driving 5 years ago it was around $2," said Tulli.
If prices keep going up?
"I'm probably going to have to get another job," said Tulli.
Oil prices surged another $7 a barrel just this Wednesday. The price of brent crude rose almost $113 a barrel which is the highest its been since 2014 and Russia is a major exporter of crude oil, accounting for about 12% of the world's supply.
The spike in oil and gas prices is not likely to go down anytime soon as the war between Russia and Ukraine grows stronger each day. Now for those of you who use oil to keep your home warm you can expect to see your electric bill higher than usual.
Here are a few tips on how to make you gas stretch :
-Check your air filter
-Get your oil changed
-Check your Fan Belt  Â
-Replace your spark plugs
-Lighten the load
-Turn down the air conditioner
-Use cruise control
-Plan to leave for trips early
-Don't revive your engine
-Check your tires
