Strict Gas Pump Law for Drivers in Buffalo, New York

Now that June is here and summer is officially just a few weeks away, gas prices remain relatively high across New York State. From Buffalo to Albany, drivers are still paying a premium at the pump, with prices hovering around $4.60 per gallon.

Are rising gas prices changing the way you drive this summer?

Whether you’re planning a family road trip, cutting back on unnecessary errands, or simply trying to save money, one thing is certain: sooner or later, you’ll have to fill up your vehicle.

Gas Prices Remain High Across Western New York

In Buffalo, the average price of gasoline is currently around $4.59 per gallon. Filling up your car, SUV, or truck is noticeably more expensive than it was last summer.

Read More: New York State is Enforcing This Firewood Law This Summer

The good news, if there is any, is that many people in Buffalo and Western New York have relatively short commutes compared to drivers in larger metropolitan areas. However, summer often means more driving for families with busy schedules. Between youth sports, summer camps, vacations, and other activities, miles can add up quickly.

Some families have even started riding their bicycles more often or combining errands in an effort to reduce fuel costs until gas prices begin to ease.

Do You Have to Turn Off Your Vehicle While Pumping Gas?

One of the most commonly discussed questions among drivers involves whether it is actually illegal to leave your vehicle running while filling up at a gas station.

According to local regulations in Buffalo, drivers are required to shut off their vehicle while fueling. In fact, the law states that a motor vehicle engine must be turned off when it is within 50 feet of a gasoline pump.

"No operator or driver of any motor vehicle shall allow the same to remain standing within any garage building or gasoline service station or within 50 feet of any gasoline pump, while waiting for fuel, service or repairs, unless the operation of the motor of said vehicle is stopped".

Buffalo Gas Stations Must Post Warning Signs

In addition to requiring drivers to turn off their vehicles, Buffalo regulations also require gas station and repair shop owners to display signage instructing customers to shut off their engines while fueling.

The rule is designed to reduce the risk of fire and improve safety around gasoline pumps.

What Happened to Gas Caps?

During a recent discussion about fueling up, another topic came up that many drivers have noticed in recent years: the disappearance of traditional gas caps.

Related: New York State Limits Gas Storage For Residents

Not long ago, a loose gas cap could trigger a warning light or diagnostic code on your dashboard. Today, many newer vehicles are built with capless fuel systems. Drivers simply open the fuel door, insert the nozzle, and begin pumping gas without having to remove or tighten a gas cap.

Summer Road Trips Are Just Around the Corner

The weather across Western New York has been pleasant over the last several days, and hopefully June brings more sunshine and comfortable temperatures.

Students are counting down the final days of school, and before long families will be heading to parks, beaches, campgrounds, and vacation destinations across New York State and beyond.

If you’re planning a summer road trip, now may be a good time to think ahead and look for ways to conserve fuel, save money, and get the most out of every gallon of gas.