The Mitchell Interchange, on Milwaukee's south side next to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, is where I-94/I-41 meets I-43/I-894. Nearby, the Airport Spur carries travelers to and from the terminal, and Layton Avenue, College Avenue, and Howell Avenue fill with rental cars, shuttles, and ride-share drivers. Long ramps, lane drops, and drivers searching for the right exit make this one of the more demanding places to drive in the region. When a crash happens here, the priorities are clear: protect people, get out of the traffic stream, and clear the road. This guide explains how.
Why this area is different
A crash on a quiet suburban street gives you time to think. A crash near the Mitchell Interchange does not. Traffic keeps flowing at high speed on several levels, ramps are long and curved, and shoulders can be narrow. Many drivers in the area are travelers unfamiliar with the roads, so they may react unpredictably to a stopped vehicle. All of this means your first decisions should focus on getting out of harm's way.
Immediately after the crash
- Check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
- Turn on your hazard lights, even if the car seems undamaged.
- If the cars can move safely and no one is hurt, drive them to the shoulder or off the freeway at the next exit, rather than stopping in a lane.
- If a car cannot move, leave it, and move everyone to a protected spot behind a barrier or well away from traffic.
- Do not walk across lanes or stand on a ramp to exchange information. Wait until you are somewhere safe.
Calling for help
Call 911 if lanes are blocked or anyone is hurt; police manage freeway scenes and can close lanes if necessary. Then call Lake Front Towing at (414) 520-7264. Describing your location is the hardest part here. Instead of "near the airport," tell the dispatcher which freeway you were on, your direction, and which ramp or exit you were near — for example, "the ramp from I-94 northbound to I-894 westbound" or "on the Airport Spur heading toward the terminal." If you are unsure, share a location pin from your phone.
Travelers who crash on the way to a flight
If you were heading to the airport and your car is disabled, focus on safety and documentation first. Once you have spoken with police, call your insurer and then us. Tell the dispatcher that you need to leave for a flight. We can explain how to leave the keys and paperwork, confirm where the car should go, and contact you later to confirm it is secure. Many travelers choose secure storage, then arrange repairs once they return. Rental cars should be reported to the rental company right away; they often have their own towing arrangements.
How our crew handles an interchange recovery
Recovery near a major interchange requires efficiency. Our operator places the truck to shield the scene, coordinates with police on lane closures, and works to remove the vehicles quickly. Damaged vehicles are loaded onto flatbeds so bent wheels and hanging parts do not drag. If a car came to rest against a barrier or on an embankment, the operator uses winches and careful rigging to pull it free without causing additional damage. Before leaving, the crew clears the debris from our customer's vehicle so the lanes can reopen safely.
Secondary crashes are the biggest danger
Some of the most serious injuries at crash scenes come from secondary collisions — a second vehicle hitting the people or cars involved in the first crash. Near the Mitchell Interchange, where drivers are watching for exits and merging across lanes, a stopped car can appear with almost no warning. That is why we keep repeating the same advice: get out of the lanes if you can, and if you cannot, get the people away from the vehicles. A damaged bumper can always be replaced; nothing else matters as much as getting everyone to a protected spot while you wait.
Documenting the crash safely
Photos are important for your insurance claim, but not at the expense of your safety. Take pictures only from a protected spot. Get the other driver's name, contact information, insurance company, and policy number. Note the police officer's name and report number. If you could not gather everything at the scene, the police report will contain much of it.
Where your car goes
After a crash near the airport, many drivers are far from home and their regular mechanic. You can have the car towed to:
- A body shop of your choice anywhere in the Milwaukee area.
- A shop recommended by your insurance company.
- Your home.
- Secure storage until the adjuster decides on repairs.
For drivers who live outside the area, our long distance towing can bring the vehicle home once you are ready.
Frequently asked questions
Do you work with rental car companies?
Rental companies often have their own procedures. Contact the rental company first; if they authorize us, we can handle the tow.
Can you tow from airport parking structures?
Often, yes. Let us know the structure, level, and any height restrictions.
How quickly can you respond near the airport?
We are based in nearby Oak Creek, and the airport area is part of our core coverage. Crash calls are prioritized.
Need help after a crash near the Mitchell Interchange or the airport? Call (414) 520-7264 24/7. Learn more about our accident recovery.