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One of the many ways that consumers are trying to reduce the amount of money they spend on gas for their commutes is to resort to a practice called “hypermiling”. Hypermiling is a term used to describe the various practices used by drivers to improve their fuel economy. Advocates claim they can improve fuel efficiency of their cars and trucks just by changing their day-to-day driving practices. The practice has become so popular, that there is even a website dedicated to hypermilng, with forums and advice for drivers.

However, some “extreme” hypermiliers have been advocating practices that are concerning law enforcement and safety experts.

Dangerous hypermiling practices

• Drafting behind trucks. This is a very dangerous practice, as it requires tailgating very close to the truck and means that you’re riding in the driver’s blind spot.
• Driving far below the speed limit at times. Modern cars actually perform better at higher speeds, and driving far below the speed limit will not only frustrate other motorists but will disrupt traffic flow and potentially cause an accident.
• Taking sharp curves at high speeds. Failing to slow down as appropriate for a sharp curve can result in more torque than a driver can handle, resulting in an accident.
• Coasting with the engine off. This practice is dangerous because it compromises the car's ability to steer or brake when necessary for emergencies.
• Passing red lights or stop signs in areas of low traffic. It is never, ever advisable to treat traffic signals like lights or signs as optional – it is also illegal. The risk of hitting a car coming from another direction is too great, and the impact of these types of crashes can be very serious.
• Over inflating tires to reduce rolling resistance. This practice can make tires more susceptible to road hazard damage and result in premature wear to the center portion of the tread. Over-inflation can also cause handling issues due to less tire surface making contact with the road.

Some safe and effective hypermiling practices

Not all hypermiling practices are dangerous, and some have actually been proven to reduce fuel consumption:
• Use cruise control. Cruise control is useful on stretches of road with a consistent speed limit, and prevents a driver from varying their speed or speeding up over time without noticing it. Fuel efficiency savings can be up to 14%
• Avoid aggressive driving moves. Aggressive driving – sudden stops, rapid acceleration, driving erratically at high speed, accelerating hard to pass other vehicles – worsens gas mileage. An overall more relaxed driving approach can safe fuel – and make for a more pleasant drive.
• Start and stop slowly. Some tests have found that accelerating slowly from a stop and decelerating slowly to a stop can increase fuel efficiency up to 35%

Hypermiling is an easy way for any driver to improve the fuel efficiency of their vehicle – so long as it is practiced in a safe and responsible manner.

If you or someone you love have been seriously injured in a traffic accident and would like to speak with a skilled attorney about your case then please contact Weisberg & Zaleski today. We’ll discuss your case with you for no charge and no obligation.

Weisberg & Zaleski, P.C.
112 College Place
Norfolk, VA 23510

Toll Free: (800) 690-0235
Phone: (757) 622-7740
Fax: (757) 533-9223

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Weisberg & Zaleski, P.C.
112 College Place
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 622-7740
Fax: (757) 533-9223
Toll Free: (800) 690-0235
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