NEW YORK --

Gas prices around New York City have drivers stopped in their tracks, or, in many cases, in their driveways -- prompting many people to find alternative means of transportation.

The national average price for a gallon of regular hit $3.72 a gallon Monday, a new record, and a price that reflects an increase of about 35 cents in just the past month.

In New York City there has been an even bigger jump. According the American Automobile Association, the average for regular has jumped to $3.06 per gallon, up about 55 cents in just the past month.

With the summer driving season ahead, some are asking if we will we see a $4 or $5 gallon price on gas.

AAA says expect higher prices are expected, but maybe not that high.

Analysts are blaming the high price of crude gas and concerns about declining production.

Meantime, it seems many are trying to find alternate means of getting around. Trains and subway ridership is up about 7% in the New York area.