As gas prices on Long Island hit a new high Friday, more and more residents say they are cutting back on day-to-day purchases.

According to AAA, regular unleaded on the Island hit $3.37 a gallon Friday with diesel going for $4.20. Some say the higher gas prices are really hurting those who are just getting by more than the wealthy, because everyone must drive to get around.

While many are tightening their purse strings a bit, some say it?s not always consciously done. ?You do cut back I guess unknowingly. You watch your pennies, maybe spend a few bucks less on lunch, ? motorist Lane Landsman says.

Economists say any gas cutback by Long Islanders is going to be minimal because there aren't many transportation alternatives. Martin Melkonian, an economics professor at Hofstra University, says an efficient mass transit system could make a real difference on Long Island.

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