"The world's longest parking lot." Until it isn't — then radar wakes up.
The Queens stretch of I-495 (the LIE) runs from the Midtown Tunnel through Long Island City, Maspeth, Elmhurst, Rego Park, Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, and out to the Cross Island. 50 mph posted. Dense radar between exits 17 (Maurice Ave) and 30 (Cross Island). HOV lane enforcement during rush hour. James handles every common LIE citation.
Top citations on the LIE — and what each one costs.
50 mph posted, 70 mph is the realistic late-night speed. Radar concentrated between exits 17 (Maurice Ave) and 30 (Cross Island). Service-road pursuit teams are active during off-peak hours.
The LIE HOV lane requires 3+ occupants during 6–10 AM eastbound and 3–8 PM westbound. Single-occupant in HOV = ticket. Hour boundary is the trap.
LIE rush-hour traffic compresses safe following distance. Tailgating tickets common near the Maurice Ave + Long Island City exits.
LIE entrance ramps from Maurice Ave + 31st St have short merges. Lane-change citations common when drivers cut across multiple lanes.
LIE stop-and-go invites phone use. Don't. Officers in unmarked vehicles ride alongside in the carpool lane to spot violations.
LIE is a major commercial trucking corridor to Long Island. Speed + weight + log-book violations are enforced. CDL holders face heavier consequences.
The specific spots on the LIE where citations cluster.
HOV tickets, speed cameras, lane-change citations — all negotiable if fought before the deadline.