DOVER, N.H. – The American Automobile Association is getting more calls to help Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire drivers who have run out of gas.

The AAA is blaming high gas prices for the rising number of calls as more drivers run on empty.

Nick Wallner, spokesman for AAA Northern New England, says the number of calls has nearly doubled since last year.

State police Capt. Russell Conte says drivers should take precautions if they run out of gas. He says they should stay in their car or behind the guardrail if it’s hot rather than walk in the breakdown lane.