AAA: Average Gas Price Statewide at $4.28 on Monday, Up 6 Cents From Sunday, 56 Cents Since Last Week

Global crude oil prices have bubbled over the $119-a-barrel mark, pushing average gas prices in the nation and in Connecticut over $4 a gallon this past weekend, making it the 8th most expensive state in the country.

— an announcement from AAA Northeast

Today, Connecticut’s statewide average for a gallon of self-serve regular is $4.28, reflecting a 6-cent jump since yesterday and a 56-cent increase since last week. The state average hasn’t been this high since May 2012

Today’s National average of $4.07 is also 6 cents higher than yesterday and 46 cents higher than last week. The national average hasn’t been this high since July 2008.

SEE ALSO Jim Cameron’s column on Monday: “Simple Ways of Saving on Gas”

“As long as crude prices continue to surge, drivers can expect the current trend of higher pump prices to continue” said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. “At this point, the most effective actions drivers can take to pinch their gas pennies are to reduce their speeds, inflate their tires and keep their vehicles properly maintained.”

Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly when traveling over 60 miles per hour; properly inflated tires improve gas mileage by more than 3% per tire; and a properly maintained car contributes to overall fuel efficiency, said Mayko.

Today, Missouri registers the lowest price in the nation at $3.63, followed by Oklahoma at $3.65. California and Hawaii continue to hold the highest prices in the nation at $5.34 and $4.70, respectively.

Connecticut moved to the 8th spot from 11th on the list of highest gas prices in the nation. Average gas prices may be obtained daily through GasPrices.AAA.com.

Here is AAA’s weekly price survey of Connecticut’s six metro regions: