04/10/08 Spring Gas Prices

How much is too much? The Energy Department's Energy Information Administration is predicting that pump prices could rise as high as $4 a gallon this summer. The government's crystal ball is also predicting that such astronomical prices may cut demand for gasoline at the height of the summer. Ya think! Sadly, such high prices at the pumps will have the domino effect across the nation this summer, not just hitting the consumer's pocketbook. If consumers can't afford to fill the family car, they won't be taking that much needed vacation. National park attendance will suffer, hotel and restaurant business will plummet and several other businesses that rely on summer tourist traffic may suffer irreparable damage. In such a catch twenty two situation experts argue over just how high prices have to rise before consumers are shocked into driving less. Some say that $4 per gallon may just be the crucial tipping point. Will $4 a gallon change your summer plans? Ultimately, it will be your decision on whether you have to cancel your family vacation. So how much is too much, only the ring of the gas pump will tell.