TEXAS — Texas doesn’t have the most expensive gas in the U.S. but it’s higher than it’s ever been.

According to AAA Texas, the state hit an average $4 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel Thursday. The record comes as the Biden administration has banned the import of Russian energy products as the invasion of Ukraine continues. At the same time, inflation remains high.

Gas in Texas is currently 62 cents higher than it was a week ago and $1.45 more per gallon than it was at this time last year.

RELATED: Tired of rising gas costs? Find out where to get the cheapest gas near you

Per usual, folks in El Paso are paying the most for gas. It’s averaging $4.19 per gallon out west. Amarillo residents are paying the least, an average of $3.74 per gallon.

If there’s any good news in Texas it’s that the national average is $4.32 per gallon.

According to AAA, what’s driving this hike is uncertainty in the global market concerning how big of an impact the loss of Russian crude will have.

“Gas prices are climbing at a weekly pace we’ve never seen before, breaking records that set in 2008 across the state,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Prices are anticipated to keep rising due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the impact it’s causing on crude oil prices.” 

The price hike comes at a time when COVID-19 has waned in Texas and across the nation, meaning working remotely is no longer an option for many people. What can you do to get the most mileage out of the gas you do buy? AAA recommends the following:

• Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
• Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
• Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
• Minimize your use of air conditioning.
• Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
• Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
• Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
• Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
•  When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel. Discount Tire, for example, offers free air checks at their shops.
• When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.