ORLANDO, Fla. – With the approach of Independence Day, gas prices are anticipated to decrease as nearly 61.1 million Americans are expected to travel nationwide for the holiday weekend, officials have stated.

A GasBuddy survey of 856 stations in Orlando indicated that the average price per gallon, $2.89, has decreased by 25.9 cents since last month and is 46.9 cents lower compared to a year ago.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the lowest-priced station in Orlando was $2.65 per gallon, while the highest was $3.77 per gallon — a disparity of $1.12.

Meanwhile, the national average is $3.14 per gallon, dropping 3.8 cents in the last week, surveys showed, up 1.1 cents from a month ago and is 32.1 cents cheaper than a year ago.

“For motorists planning to hit the road for Independence Day, gas prices are expected to continue falling nearly coast to coast in the lead-up to July 4,” Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said in a release. “Relief could expand as the holiday weekend approaches, with the national average on track to hit its lowest July 4 level since 2021 at $3.15 per gallon, we project.”

AAA is expecting an increased need in roadside assistance as more drivers hit the road to travel for Independence Day. Last year, AAA responded to more than 700,000 roadside emergencies, officials said, with the most common calls being flat tires, dead batteries and lockouts.

AAA Tips to Prevent Car Problems

• Check your tires – Ensure proper inflation and tread depth. Don’t forget the spare.

• Inspect your brakes – Grinding noises or vibrations signal a need for service.

• Test your battery – If your engine starts slowly or the lights are dim, it may be time for a replacement. AAA members can get battery checks at a AAA Car Care, Approved Auto Repair Facility or call AAA to request on-site service.

• Replace wiper blades – If your wipers streak or don’t clear the windshield thoroughly, replace them.

• Top off fluids – check oil, coolant, and brake, transmission, and power steering fluids. Use products recommended in your owner’s manual.

• Replenish your emergency kit – Include essentials like a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, water, non-perishable snacks, jumper cables, emergency flares, and a basic tool kit.

“As you finalize your travel plans, don’t forget to check your vehicle’s condition,” Mark Jenkins, Public Relations Manager for AAA, said in a release. “A simple pre-trip inspection of your tires, battery, brakes, and other essentials can prevent unexpected breakdowns.”