Even as oil prices reach a new high, it seems everyone wants to know how these huge changes are affecting US drivers. Mapquest hired a third party surveyor to conduct a survey on how gas prices were affecting their lives. 92% responded that gas prices were already forcing lifestyle changes.
MapQuest collaborated with DMS Research to conduct the survey. A National sample of 1,001 Internet users (age 18+). Interviews were collected from June 5 - 11, 2008.
High Gas Prices are Forcing a Change in Every Day Life
63% said gas prices are already having a significant impact on their life.
80% are forfeiting day-to-day activities and changing their spending habits62% are eating out less
46% are shopping less, enjoying less entertainment or going to coffee houses
High Gas Prices are Forcing People to Drive Differently
82% are making a conscious effort to drive less
57% are planning routes more carefully
31% are only filling gas tanks partially
24% are walking or biking more
24% are turning to the internet to search for cheap gas prices
Americans Are Going Into Debt to Fill Up
76% say gas purchases are increasing their overall debt
Travel Plans Are Being Changed
58% are the most concerned with cost of gas vs airplane ticket fare.66% of consumers say gas prices have caused them to alter vacation plans
34% have canceled vacation plans altogether
37% are opting to take shorter road trips
Feeling the Heat
27% feel oil companies are to blame for continually rising prices
13% feel the federal government is the cause
78% feel the federal government should step in and set limits on gas prices
All in all, not a pretty picture. No wonder hybrid cars and more fuel efficient cars are in such high demand while trucks and larger SUVs suffer.
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