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May 28, 2004 10:45 AM, EDT

American consumers reported feeling worse about the current state of the economy in May, a report by the University of Michigan said Friday.

The University of Michigan index of consumer sentiment fell to 90.2 in May from 94.2 in the previous month.

Economists told Bloomberg the index fell despite an improving job market because of spiking fuel prices, rising interest rates and quickening inflation.

The final report on the index also represented a decline from the University’s preliminary report. Like the final April reading, the early May report was 94.2.

Consumer sentiment is commonly thought to drive spending, which often pushes demand for trucking services.