AAA says the situation between Russia and Ukraine is driving gas prices
higher – nationally and in New Jersey.
AAA says the average price for gas nationally is $3.61,
while New Jersey's average is not far off at $3.65 – up 15 cents from last
month.
"It's expensive, and it cuts into my budget
real hard," says Lyft driver Bridgette Cameron.
Lyft drivers that spoke with News 12 say they are
getting paid less right now because fares have not gone up but gas prices
have.
"The price for the fares, it hasn't changed. And the
gas prices keep going up, so we're absolutely operating at a loss right
now,” says Aaron Lecene.
Drivers say it's a tough situation because less people could request rides if
fares go up.
"Nobody wants to pay more,” says
Lecene. “I'm not sure if you use Uber
or Lyft, but you don't want to pay more. Of course
you want the drivers to make a good living, but you don't want to
pay more. It's difficult for everyone."
News 12 reached out to both Uber and Lyft for a comment but did
not hear back. Some drivers say one way to help is just to tip more with the
high gas prices in mind.
A year ago, gas in New Jersey was almost a full dollar cheaper at $2.84.