SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) -- Not too many smiling faces at the local BP as drivers across Metro Detroit are continuing to see higher gas prices.
According to the latest survey from AAA Michigan, prices at the pump are now averaging $3.97 per gallon for regular in the state — a new high for 2022.
Metro Detroit’s current average is $4 per gallon, about 46 cents more than last week’s average and $1.26 more than this same time last year, AAA said.
WWJ's Charlie Langton said those numbers seemed about right as he took a drive through the suburbs Monday morning.
"In Sterling Heights, $3.89, $3.99, $4.19 — all on Van Dyke," Langton reported.
At the BP station at 12 Mile Rd. and Telegraph Rd. in Southfield, regular was up to $4.29 a gallon early in the AM. And it was the same price at the Mobil on Woodward Ave., just north of Maple Rd.
The price at that Southfield BP was $3.45 a gallon just one week ago.
"We're cheap compared to other people... $4.29 is not bad," insisted Dave, a manager at the station.
"It's going to go up again tonight; at least another dime," he added.
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As for why, AAA said crude oil prices continue to surge as the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to bring uncertainty to the market.
An increase in gas demand, alongside a reduction in total supply, is contributing to price increases, AAA added, but increasing oil prices continue to play a leading role in pushing prices higher.
"Rising crude oil prices sent Michigan pump prices soaring to the highest prices since June of 2013," said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson, AAA-The Auto Club Group. "Pump prices will likely continue to rise as crude prices continue to climb."
So, how are Metro Detroiters handling it?
"Oh man...can't afford it. Walking sounds like a good option. Yes sir," said one local driver, Steven Wolf.
Coy, from Pontiac, told Langton these prices are "crazy."
"I can't even afford to come to work anymore because the gas is too high," he said. "You're going to have to cut back on certain things, of course. Yeah, because you can't afford these prices and continue living like this. It's hard for everybody... It's going to be hard for everybody."
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