Free Gas Giveaway Backs Up Traffic In Sherman Oaks

SHERMAN OAKS (CBS) — It was a sight reminiscent of gas lines of the 1970s — only this one turned a drivers' dream into a traffic nightmare.

Cars were lined up for blocks near the Shell station at Coldwater Canyon and Riverside Drive in Sherman Oaks on Wednesday for a chance to get a free fill-up.

Drivers received 15 gallons of complimentary regular unleaded gas and were treated to full pump service by Shell employees.

The special 90-minute-long promotion even saw the station's price sign reverted to all zeroes — a welcome sight as gas prices continue to average around $4.38 a gallon in the Southland.