State Farm® has been a long-time proponent of safe driving, but did you know that safe driving habits can also be green driving habits? Here are some tips to help you save dollars at the pump, protect the environment, and be a safer driver:
- Slow and Steady is the Way – According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, “jack-rabbit” starts waste gas and lead to higher pollution. A few seconds of rapid acceleration can produce significantly more carbon monoxide emissions than the vehicle would normally produce over several minutes at a steady cruising speed. And, the National Safety Council cautions that driving too fast or too slow can increase the likelihood of collisions.
- When inflation is good – Tires can lose 1 to 2 pounds of pressure each month and the number balloons in the winter months. According to the Department of Energy, maintaining properly inflated tires can boost fuel efficiency by about 3 percent, equaling about 20 gallons of gas a year. And, properly inflated tires are safer since the chance of a blowout can be reduced according to the California Energy Commission.
- Get a Fuel-Efficient Tax Break – Automakers are offering hybrid vehicles that can get up to 50 miles per gallon. The federal government offers tax incentives for some hybrid vehicles. And don’t forget, many other fuel-efficient vehicles are available on the market.
- Quality Matters in Oil – According to the Alliance to Save Energy, choosing your manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil, including re-refined motor oil, can boost fuel efficiency by 1 to 2 percent.
- Save the Drive, Share the Drive – The benefits of walking, biking, public transportation, carpooling, and combining trips for errands, no matter how minimal you do it, can save you in many ways. Walking and biking can improve your health, reduce fuel usage, and reduce pollution. Driving less by just 5%, through combining trips, walking, biking, or taking public transportation, can save you as much as 30 gallons of gasoline per year. Also, check if your company sponsors a carpool or vanpool.
- De-Junk Your Trunk – According to the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, for every 100 pounds of weight in your vehicle, fuel economy is reduced by 1 to 2 percent, and removing 100 extra pounds from your vehicle can save up to a full tank of gasoline each year.
