AAA's Monthly Fuel Report Shows Continued High-Price Trend

AURORA, Ill., Sept. 14 -- Both statewide averages for the price of gasoline in Illinois and Northern Indiana have risen sharply during the past month primarily due to the effects of Hurricane Katrina. AAA Chicago's most recent Fuel Gauge Report estimates that in Illinois regular unleaded gasoline has risen 36 cents over the past month, forecasting an average cost of $2.99 per gallon for the month of September and up $1.13 per gallon from last year.

"Fuel prices skyrocketed nationwide in the wake of destruction left by Hurricane Katrina," says Kris Lathan, AAA Chicago's director of public affairs. "A severe strain to the nation's gasoline and diesel fuel distribution system resulted, but fortunately prices have come down from their high point as the recovery progresses."

In northern Indiana, gas prices average $2.95, which is up 41 cents from August and up $1.12 from September 2004.

* In Cook County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $3.06, which is up 31 cents compared to last month and $1.10 higher than last year's price-per-gallon.

* In DuPage County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.98 per gallon, which is a 31-cent increase from August and $1.11 higher than last year.

* In Kane County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.99 per gallon, which is up 35 cents compared to last month and $1.13 higher than September 2004's price.

* In Lake County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.96 per gallon, which is up 29 cents in the last month and up by $1.09 compared to this time last year.

* In McHenry County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.99 per gallon, which up 35 cents from August's average and $1.13 higher than September 2004's price.

* In Will County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.97 per gallon, which is 30 cents higher compared to last month and $1.09 higher compared to last year.

* In Allen County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.93 per gallon, which is an increase of 49 cents from last month and $1.06 higher than September 2004's price.

* In Lake County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.93 per gallon, a 47-cent increase from August's average and a $1.12 increase from a year ago.

* In St. Joseph County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages $2.87 per gallon, which is up 46 cents compared to last month and an increase of $1.03 from September 2004.

With fuel prices setting new record highs, AAA reminds motorists to take matters into their own hands by employing practical fuel-conservation measures. Public transportation, car pooling, routine vehicle maintenance, accelerating at steady moderate speeds, combining trips and errands and minimizing use of air conditioning can all conserve gasoline. In addition, consumers should consider switching to more fuel-efficient cars and trucks when purchasing new vehicles.

AAA Chicago will celebrate 100 years of service in 2006. Formed in 1906, AAA Chicago represents roadway interests for motorists and pedestrians and serves their leading advocate for various traffic safety and travel-related issues. For more information on high gas prices and money-saving tips, please visit our Web site at www.aaa.com or call us toll-free at 1-877-YOUR AAA (968-7222).

AAA Chicago offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG clubs belong to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization, with more than 48 million members in the United States and Canada.