ORLANDO, Florida. – Gasoline prices in Florida fell 13 cents per gallon last week, according to AAA.

The average price per gallon is $3.32, the lowest daily average price since June 19.

“Motorists were able to see some relief at the pump last week as crude oil and gasoline futures prices fell sharply,” AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins said in a press release. “Fuel prices had been under downward pressure due to concerns about a global recession. However, futures prices regained some ground last week on renewed economic optimism, which could lead to a slight increase at the pump.”

According to AAA, the price of crude oil was on a downward trend for four weeks, during which time oil prices fell by 13 percent.

“According to our partners at OPIS, oil prices rose last week on a weaker dollar, expectations of a September interest rate cut in the U.S. and ongoing fears of an escalating conflict in the Middle East. In addition, traders were optimistic after weekly U.S. unemployment figures fell on Thursday, enough to offset concerns about a global recession that had previously weighed on fuel prices,” AAA said in a press release.

Regional prices

• Most expensive Metro Markets – West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($3.50), Naples ($3.43), Gainesville ($3.42)

• Cheapest Metro Markets – Crestview-Fort Walton Beach ($3.08), Pensacola ($3.09), Panama City ($3.13)

Ways to save fuel

• Combine errands to limit travel time.

• Compare prices for the best gas prices in your community.

• Pay with cashSome retailers charge customers who pay by credit card a per-gallon surcharge.

• Lose excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds of weight reduction improves fuel economy by 1-2 percent.

• Drive conservatively. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds reduce fuel consumption.

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