Drivers slow down as gas costs rise

SACRAMENTO, June 22 (UPI) -- As U.S. gas prices soar above $4 a gallon, more motorists are driving significantly slower on the freeway, analysts say.

Experts say following speed limits is one way to battle ballooning gas costs, The Sacramento (Calif.) Bee reported Sunday.

"Once you get above 55 mph, almost all cars are losing fuel economy. It is going to decline about 7 to 8 percent per five miles of increased speed," said David Greene, an analyst with the U.S. Department of Energy.

Some drivers say slowing down simply gives them peace of mind.

"To tell you the truth, I feel better. It's a metaphor, really, for not rushing in life. It's a meditative approach," said driver Frank Salituri, who pays about $118.99 to fill up his work van.