Smartphone Program Lets Consumers Check Gas Station History

Image via WikipediaNext time you fill up the tank, a new decal on the pump can help smartphone uses find out if the gas station has history of short-changing customers.
With gas prices around $3.50, Rene Pryor hopes she's getting what she pays for.
"Sometimes I wonder if they are really calibrated right.," she said Friday while waiting in line to fill up on the south side.
The Texas Department of Agriculture checks gas pumps, but has now accelerated efforts to assure consumers are getting the quantity and quality of fuel they are paying for. Consumer information stickers are now required on every Texas pump. The decals display a URL to the state's new website.
Using a smartphone, motorists can go to that website and instantly see if the station is registered, check the station's compliance history and make a complaint.
"We use smartphones to email, take photos, send tweets, and now consumers can use them to file complaints directly with the Texas Department of Agriculture if they suspect they aren't getting what they paid for at the pump," said Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples said.
As part of a test program, the decals at HEB pumps will also include QR (quick read) codes. Consumers can scan the code with their smartphone and will be connected to the website.
Drivers fueling up Friday morning liked the new program.
"People need to know what's going on," said Suzie Rocamontes.The state is also increasing fines for cheating customers at the pump.
As for the other signs on gas pumps that tell consumers not to use a cell phone while fueling, HEB and other retailers advise drivers to use the new smartphone program either before or after fueling.