Who Do You Blame for High Gas Prices?

Fed up with record gas prices, drivers often scapegoat big oil companies for high prices at the pump, but in a recent survey, more Americans directed their scorn towards Washington lawmakers.

According to a Consumer Reports Auto Pulse Survey released recently, 77% of consumers said the root of high gas prices lies with the government’s failure to implement an effective energy policy. That compares with 75% of drivers who blamed oil companies, 70% who said foreign oil producers were at fault and 68% who thought the Middle East conflict was a leading cause for record fuel costs.

90% of those surveyed support an increase in alternative energy development, and 81% want the U.S. government to allow more drilling on and off our nation’s shores. Americans also favored conservation measures, with 83% saying they supported tax incentives for alternate transportation.

For those who haven’t adjusted their behaviors, the kinds of cars people drive are changing as well. In last year’s survey, only 47% said they were interested in alternative engine types like hybrids, flex-fuel vehicles, or diesel engines. But this year, 80% said they would consider buying a car with an alternate-style engine, and 54% said they would pay extra for a more fuel-efficient vehicle. 15% of respondents even said they would even compromise on their vehicle’s safety to save on gas.

What about you? Who do you blame for the high gasoline prices we’re all paying? And have you adjusted any of your driving habits in order to save money at the pump? Sound off.. tell us what you think. Use the comment link below to voice your opinion, and remember, your email address will never be published at this site.