A BP gas station located at 1598 W 68th St in Hialeah offered a limited-time promotion on Wednesday, selling gas at just $1.99 per gallon. This unexpected relief for South Florida drivers led to long lines forming from the early hours of the morning.
The event, spearheaded by UniVista Insurance and Loyalty Insurance, took place between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Drivers were limited to 10 gallons per vehicle, and service was provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Community Support Through Action
The stark contrast to regular prices was evident: on the same day, the average price per gallon in Miami-Dade County was $4.37, while the statewide average in Florida reached $4.46, as reported by AAA.
Telemundo 51 reported that lines began forming as early as 5 a.m., highlighting the significant impact that high fuel costs have on working families in the area.
Iván Herrera, CEO of UniVista Insurance, shared the motivation behind the initiative: "This event is a direct way to support our community, not just with words, but through actions."
A Gesture of Appreciation
Geraldine Velloch, a spokesperson for the company, emphasized their gratitude towards loyal customers: "This is our way of thanking the public who have trusted us over the years, especially when the economy is tough, and gas prices are so high."
Residents who took advantage of the deal expressed their relief. Noraida Rodríguez encapsulated the sentiment: "It's some extra money saved that can be used for other things." Freddy Paulino was more straightforward: "With the economy today, twenty or forty dollars at least helps buy something for the house."
A Legacy of Giving Back
Herrera, a Cuban-American entrepreneur who arrived in the U.S. as a raft refugee from Cuba, founded UniVista in 2009. Today, the company boasts over 300 offices and 3,000 employees, becoming one of the most recognized insurers within Florida's Hispanic community.
This isn't the first time UniVista has launched such initiatives in Hialeah. Back in 2018, they offered gas for $1 per gallon at the same location when Florida's average hovered around $2.82.
Global Factors Affecting Gas Prices
The current surge in fuel prices is attributed to adverse international conditions. Gasoline prices in the U.S. soared over 50% following the military conflict with Iran that began on February 28, 2026. This conflict led to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, pushing Brent crude oil prices to $114.60 per barrel. Since then, the cost per gallon in Florida has increased by more than $1.46.
In January, the Trump administration celebrated the decline in gas prices as one of its economic achievements. However, as of now, the state's average has surpassed $4.51, according to AAA.
"With the economy today, twenty or forty dollars at least helps buy something for the house," Freddy Paulino reiterated, one of the many drivers who benefited from the promotion, as noted by Telemundo 51.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Prices in Florida
Why was gas so cheap at the BP station in Hialeah?
The low price was part of a limited-time promotion organized by UniVista Insurance and Loyalty Insurance to provide relief to the community.
What impact did the promotion have on local residents?
The promotion offered significant financial relief to residents, allowing them to save on fuel costs and allocate their funds elsewhere.
How did international events affect gas prices in the U.S.?
The conflict with Iran and the subsequent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz caused a surge in crude oil prices, leading to higher gasoline prices in the U.S.