More Drivers Running Out of Gas

By: | News Channel 7
Published: June 20, 2008

You've probably driven right by them. Or maybe you're one of them! More people are running out of gas on the Interstates. They can't afford the high price of gas or are trying to make the most of every expensive drop. AAA says the number of drivers running out of gas is up 7% in the Carolinas. And get this: the SC Department of Transportation says it's up 17% in the Uupstate!

Jimmy Vaughn responds to it all in his DOT Incidence Response truck, formerly known as a SHEP truck. Accidents, breakdowns, blown tires.

But what response trucks are seeing more of now is people running out of gas. Said Vaughn to a stranded driver, "How's it going, buddy?"

"Ran out of gas."

They carry a can of it on their trucks. Said Vaughn, "Liquid gold. I have to keep it locked down."

The SC DOT says the number of drivers running out is up 17% in the Upstate. Vaughn sees about three gas outs a day and he's one of 7 trucks across the Upstate. "Every couple of hours I guess. ... All depends, some days you see a lot of people just push it," Vaughn said.

High gas prices are affecting the DOT, too. Explained Vaughn, "They told us to, you know, slow it down a little bit, try not to drive as many miles."

But he says they still give out the same amount of gas, about a gallon. Just enough to get you to the nearest filling station.

But you won't believe what some people will do for a free gallon of gas. Vaughn says he's seen some people fake running out of gas just to get the free gallon. Said Vaughn, "I have seen repeat vehicles.... I just remember them. They know we're out here."

And he'll be out here because as long as gas prices keep rising, drivers running out may keep rising, too.

The DOT's Incidence Response trucks patrol the Interstates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

So what do you do if you run out of gas?

Dial star-HP on your cell phone and a truck will be sent to help you.

It is not considered safe to walk to a gas station on the highway.

A truck should arrive within 30 minutes.

Don't sit inside the vehicle. It may be hit.

Instead, stand outside, far away from the road.

AAA's website featuers a fuel price finder, to help you find the cheapest gas near you. Here's the site:

http://www.aaacarolinas.com