It seems as if we flirt with record-high gas prices every year, and 2012 was no different. In September, the national average for a gallon of gas was $3.88 — the highest ever for that time of year. Americans were even paying record prices after Labor Day, which is historically when prices dip after the peak summer driving season. A number of factors were to blame, namely the Middle East unrest that boosted oil prices coupled and the hurricanes that wreaked havoc on U.S. refineries. Ultimately, this year will be remembered not just for high gas prices but also for the unusually large price swings across the country. California’s gas prices plunged more than 80 cents in less than a month between October and November, while nationwide in October, they fell more than they had in over a year.