It is no secret that the costs associated with driving can quickly add up. Monthly payments, rising fuel costs, car insurance, and maintenance are all costs that eat up a large portion of American household income.

In an uncertain economy where frugality and conservation seem to be prevailing terms, some small adjustments in how you drive could help you achieve both.

Reducing your fuel consumption can be done without negatively impacting your quality of life. A few simple tips for reducing your fuel consumption can make all the difference. Driving the speed limit will help achieve this because in essence at higher speeds your engine has to work harder due to the added air friction. This also holds true if you have a roof-rack. Roof-racks increase the weight of your vehicle and the added drag also make your vehicle work harder.

Proper maintenance of a car can also improve your fuel mileage. Proper wheel alignment and regular inspection of the vehicle will ensure that it is running as efficiently as possible.

Choosing to drive a vehicle that is fuel efficient to begin with will also save on fuel costs. Vehicles with larger engines require more expensive maintenance and burn much more gasoline on city roads.

Fueling up on colder days can also reduce your gas bill. As gasoline cools it becomes denser, meaning a gallon of gas in a cooler climate is more than a gallon of gas in a warmer climate.

So now that you are saving on fuel because you are taking these steps there is an added benefit. Due to the fact that you are now driving the speed limit, you are not only reducing your fuel costs, but you are also potentially reducing your insurance cost, you are reducing your chances of receiving a traffic ticket (which costs money) and your chances of getting into an accident (which can cause medical expenses and higher insurance premiums).

Other ways to reduce your insurance is to take an online driving course. Most insurance companies will recognize these courses but it is best to first check with your insurance provider before taking one of these courses. The cost of traffic school online will vary by course and by state. If your insurance company cannot answer all of your questions, a driving school near you may be able to help.