U.S. consumers have spent $68.1 billion more on gasoline and $43.0 billion more on diesel since March 1 than during the same period last year, according to figures shared by gas industry expert Patrick De Haan. Combined spending is reported at $111.05 billion more in 2026, or about $252 for each of the 269.8 million U.S. adults over six months, equivalent to roughly $42 a month. The estimate likely understates the burden on drivers because it includes all adults, including people who do not drive and electric-vehicle owners, while excluding teenage drivers. National gasoline prices averaged $4.371 a gallon on Wednesday, just below the record of $4.566, while diesel averaged $6.315. De Haan said diesel could reach $6.50 within 48 hours and that new records could be set this weekend. California and other states have already seen diesel exceed $8 a gallon, raising the possibility of $10 prices in California. Higher transportation costs could also feed into prices for groceries and other retail goods.