Regardless of whether gas prices are the result of supply and demand, an improving world economy, or the result of Wall St. speculators, experts believe gas will continue to rise in 2011, reaching $3.50 and maybe $4.00 before the year is out. Cold weather in Europe and the U.S., as well as improving economic activity and a weak dollar, are causing crude oil prices to rise. Beginning the year at $70.00, crude oil has recently traded around $90.00 per barrel.