Why did the automobile have a major impact on the United States in the twenties? Responses The government could tax gasoline and an increase in the use of cars increased federal and state revenue. The government could tax gasoline and an increase in the use of cars increased federal and state revenue. Traffic began to create commuting problems that the government failed to address. Traffic began to create commuting problems that the government failed to address. Inexperienced drivers caused numerous accidents that made it difficult for hospitals to provide adequate care. Inexperienced drivers caused numerous accidents that made it difficult for hospitals to provide adequate care. By the end of the decade, automobile ownership had increased dramatically