Many of the UK’s petrol stations have run dry after a frenzy of panic buying over the last few days. Have you been affected by the situation?
News broke late last week that, while the UK has plenty of fuel, it isn’t always where it’s most needed due to the HGV driver shortage.
Panic buying followed with people sharing reports of fuel deliveries on social media and whipping one another into a frenzy of fuel buying and queues.
The chair of the Petrol Retailers Association explained to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme:
‘”As soon as a tanker arrives at a filling station, people on social media are advising that a tanker has arrived and then it’s like bees to a honey pot. Everyone flocks there and, within a few hours, it’s out again”
There are reports that the situation is beginning to stabilise, with the army on standby to help with fuel distribution if they are needed.
But what impact has it had on you? And is there any excuse for panic buying?
Should I stock up on fuel?
The official advice is to only buy what you need. If you do not need to top up, don’t. It’s also a bad idea to keep jerry cans full of fuel in your home.
Our very own Gareth Shaw, appearing on Monday on Channel 4’s Steph’s packed Lunch, explained the situation:
How to manage the #PetrolCrisis with @WhichUK's @GarethRShaw #fuelpanic #StephsPackedLunch pic.twitter.com/SBHY8gW2dt
— Steph's Packed Lunch (@PackedLunchC4) September 27, 2021
Have you been affected by the fuel situation?
Has the panic buying of petrol caused you to rethink how you get around? If so, how?
The panic buying hasn't changed how I think about my driving habits (62%, 1,325 Votes)
I am more interested in buying an electric vehicle (10%, 209 Votes)
I do not drive (8%, 164 Votes)
I am planning to cycle or walk more where able (6%, 135 Votes)
Something else - let us know in the comments (6%, 130 Votes)
I am planning to use public transport more often (5%, 102 Votes)
I am planning on carpooling or driving less overall (3%, 60 Votes)
Total Voters: 2,125

Have you seen examples of price gouging? What impact has panic buying had on you? Has the situation made you consider moving to an electrical vehicle sooner than you otherwise may have?
Do you have any questions for us?
Let us know your views in the comments.