Monday Money-Saver: Slow Down

I've already expressed by bewilderment at the obsession among drivers to drive as fast as they possibly can, no matter where they are going or who's in the car with them. I've even drawn up some hypothetical scenarios demonstrating that, really, it doesn't save you that much time - if any at all.
Here's another little something you may not have realized about your lead foot: it's wasting gas.
That's right, whether it's blazing down the highway at 85 miles per hour (and endangering yourself and other drivers) or just speeding from stoplight to stoplight in town (and endangering yourself and - okay, you get the idea), you are burning up gas unnecessarily. Here is a terrific eHow article that really explains the science behind it.
Of course driving the speed limit can save you money in more ways than just at the gas pump. There's less wear and tear on brakes, tires, gears, and more; there's less chance of being hit with one of those pesky speeding tickets; and, say, what's blood pressure medication running these days? Let's not forget the worst-case scenario of excessive speed: an accident. Even if no one is hurt, there's still the cost of repairs. Do you have the cost of your deductible just laying around earning interest? I don't. And what about those premiums? Do you think those will stay the same?
So, if you are looking for ways to make your dollar go a little bit further these days, there's one thing that you can do from behind the wheel of your automobile:
Ask yourself, "What's the rush?"