Gas and diesel prices climb, squeezing Philadelphia-area drivers

LANSDALE, Pa. (WPVI) -- Drivers in Montgomery County say sticker shock at the pump is getting worse as gasoline prices continue to climb and diesel reaches a nationwide record.

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is now $4.31, up from $2.98 before the Iran war began in February.

"I think they're insanely high," said Amer Khan of North Wales. "It's a lot, it's a lot. I don't think it's fair right now to the consumers."

Drivers in the Philadelphia metro area are paying an average of $4.53 per gallon. The average is $4.39 in South Jersey and $4.34 in Delaware. Some drivers are turning to other forms of transportation when possible.

"I do notice that sometimes in the city I do take public transportation. I've even gotten on a bike, but the reality is something you can only do with a vehicle," said Ralph Ramos of Brooklyn.

Ramos and his son, Daniel, traveled from New York City to Harleysville to pick up a vintage car.

"I work a minimum wage job. If I didn't live with my parents at 19 years old, I wouldn't be able to afford - I wouldn't be able to afford any of this," Daniel Ramos said.

Diesel has climbed to a record $6.16 per gallon nationwide. That represents an increase of roughly 10 cents overnight and nearly 30 cents in one week. At this time last year, drivers were paying $3.70 per gallon.

"How do you make any money? Taking that much fuel to go to work and do your job. It's a hindrance," Ralph Ferguson said.

Higher diesel prices can affect more than drivers. When it costs more to fuel the trucks transporting food, packages and everyday products across the country, many businesses pass those increases on to consumers.

"Supermarket prices are higher. Everything's high. Delivery charges are costing extra," Ralph Ramos said.

President Donald Trump has said gas prices likely will not decrease until the war is over after the midterm elections in November.