"Gas prices have plateaued in the past week, but analysts expect fall's broader downward trend to pick up pace again as cooler weather prevails and demand for gas dwindles. National gas prices are likely to get tantalizing close to -- but not quite at -- $3 a gallon."

"Three-dollar gas: It's not quite a reality, but it's not out of the question, either.

US gas prices have steadily declined since early September, largely due to a seasonal switchover to cheaper fuels and stable domestic supplies. Prices have plateaued in the past week, but analysts expect the broader downward trend to continue. As the weather gets colder and demand for gas dwindles, national gas prices are likely to get tantalizing close to -- but not quite reach -- $3 a gallon.  

'Most drivers are unlikely to experience the thrill of gas lower than three dollars [this year],' says Michael Green, spokesman for AAA, the national motor club. 'The reason for that is the very high cost of oil puts a floor on how low prices can go.'"

David J. Unger reports for the Christian Science Monitor October 19, 2013. [2]