Diesel has already crossed the $6 mark nationally. The U.S. average for on-highway diesel reached $6.39 per gallon for the week of September 14, according to AAA.
That number matters even if the fuel door on your car says gasoline. Diesel powers a huge portion of the machinery and transportation system that moves food, packages, building materials, trash and countless other goods. A diesel price spike can therefore reach a household budget through several doors before it ever reaches your own fuel tank.
