Speed, driving aggressively can add to already high fuel costs
QWhat do you think about current gas prices vs. widespread high speed driving?
Remember when we used to emphasize that high speed driving was more expensive than following speed limits? Is there a way to bring that again to the general public? This awareness could help in accident prevention, as well as in saving money. — Sharon Tyler,
Gilroy
AYes. Consider this. Drivers who speed and drive aggressively spend 25-35 cents more a gallon for their bad habits.
Studies repeatedly show that driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption. Adopting improved driving behaviors can contribute to significant savings at the pump. Here are some simple ways to improve your mileage:
• Keep tires properly inflated. Every pound persquare-inch that a tire is under-inflated results in a six-percent loss in fuel efficiency.
• Slow down. On the highway, aerodynamic drag causes fuel economy to drop off significantly as speeds increase above 50 mph.
• When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.
• Don’t idle. With the exception of extreme cold, most cars and trucks need only 30 to 45 seconds to warm up.
QMy husband and I were driving from Gilroy to San Jose Friday and on an overpass in Morgan Hill, there were anti-vaccine signs and flags that are very distracting to drivers. Is this legal? — Judi Short, San Jose
AIllegal, and more than annoying. More than 1,000 people a day die from COVID-19 in the United States. Get vaccinated. Be smart and get your shots.
QCan you tackle the way that the Department of Motor Vehicles treats those of us who are serving, or who have served?
If a veteran wishes to have his status displayed on a driver’s license, the DMV charges an additional $5 to note that designation on the license, over and above the normal licensing fees. The practice of additional charges for a Veterans license is disingenuous, at best.
I am not looking for a handout or a freebie from the state, I’m just noting the fact that the practice doesn’t pass the smell test. — Al Oeding , U.S. Air force (ret)
AIn 2014 the California Legislature approved Assembly Bill (AB) 935, which allowed the DMV to print the word “VETERAN” on a driver’s license or identification card when requested by an eligible applicant.
AB 935 also requires the DMV to charge a onetime fee to each applicant of up to $5, plus the cost of a new, renewal, or duplicate license fee for this enhancement.
Five bucks is not too much.