New Berlin stretches across a big piece of eastern Waukesha County, and its roads reflect that size. Interstate 43 runs along the southern part of the city, Moorland Road is one of the busiest north-south routes in the area, National Avenue and Greenfield Avenue carry traffic east toward Milwaukee, and a large business park keeps trucks moving throughout the day. On the city's western side, you can quickly find yourself on quiet two-lane roads with few streetlights. Lake Front Towing covers New Berlin around the clock, and this guide explains how to handle a breakdown wherever it happens.

Interstate 43: getting off the freeway safely

The I-43 interchanges at Moorland Road and Racine Avenue are where New Berlin drivers most often get on and off the interstate, and they are also where many of our calls begin. If your car loses power on I-43, steer to the right shoulder as early as possible. Keep your hazards on and, if traffic is heavy, consider waiting outside the car behind a guardrail. When you call, tell the dispatcher which direction you were traveling and the last exit you passed. That single detail saves time, because the truck may need to approach from a particular interchange.

Moorland Road and the commercial corridor

Moorland Road has heavy traffic, frequent signals, and multiple turn lanes. A stall here is rarely dangerous at low speed, but it can quickly create a backup. If you can reach a parking lot or a side street, do it. If not, keep your hazards on and stay belted in. Moorland Road also brings a steady stream of shoppers and commuters crossing between New Berlin and Brookfield, so we keep a close eye on traffic conditions when routing a truck.

The business park and commercial vehicles

New Berlin's industrial and business parks are full of company cars, cargo vans, and light trucks. When a work vehicle breaks down, the cost of downtime adds up fast. Our light- and medium-duty equipment handles sedans, SUVs, pickups, and commercial vans. Tell the dispatcher if the vehicle is carrying cargo or equipment — weight and load affect how it should be towed — and whether it needs to go to a fleet service center or a specific dealer.

Country roads on the west side

Once you head west, roads get narrower, shoulders turn to gravel, and ditches run close to the pavement. In winter, drifting snow can make these roads slick even when the main routes are clear. If you slide off, stay in the vehicle unless it is unsafe, keep your hazards on, and call. A car resting in a ditch often needs a winch-out before it can be towed, so mention its position — nose-down, sideways, or tilted — so the operator arrives prepared.

Things to keep in your car

A little preparation makes any breakdown easier. Consider keeping these in your vehicle, especially between November and March:

  • A phone charger or a small battery pack.
  • A flashlight with fresh batteries.
  • Gloves, a hat, and a spare warm layer.
  • A small first-aid kit and a bottle of water.
  • Reflective triangles or flares.
  • A note with your insurance policy number and our dispatch line, (414) 520-7264.

Tow or fix on the spot?

Many New Berlin calls are solved without a tow. A dead battery can usually be jump-started, a flat tire swapped for the spare, and a lockout opened without damage. If you are unsure, describe the problem to the dispatcher, and we will send the right help. Our roadside assistance page lists the on-site services we provide. If the car still will not run, the operator can tow it during the same visit.

Electric and hybrid vehicles in New Berlin

We see more electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on New Berlin streets every year. These vehicles need special care when they break down. Most manufacturers say they should never be towed with the drive wheels on the ground, because the motors can generate electricity when the wheels turn, which can damage the drive system. If your EV stops, try to put it into its transport or tow mode if the owner's manual describes one, and tell the dispatcher it is electric. We will send a flatbed and load the vehicle so that no wheels turn during the trip. If the battery simply ran out of charge, we can bring the vehicle to the nearest charging location you choose, or take it home.

How we protect your vehicle

We use flatbeds for all-wheel-drive, electric, lowered, and luxury vehicles so that no wheels touch the road during transport. Soft straps and wheel nets hold the vehicle in place without stressing suspension parts. Before loading, the operator walks around the car and notes existing damage, which protects both you and us. If you need to retrieve anything from the vehicle later, the shop or storage location will have it secured.

Frequently asked questions

Do you serve all of New Berlin?

Yes — from the I-43 corridor and the business park to the residential neighborhoods and rural roads on the west side. We also cover nearby Muskego, Greenfield, West Allis, and Hales Corners.

Can you tow my car to a dealer in another city?

Absolutely. We tow to any shop or dealer you choose. Longer trips are covered by our long distance towing service.

Will someone actually answer at 3 a.m.?

Yes. Our dispatch line is staffed 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by real people.

If you have broken down in New Berlin, call (414) 520-7264 and a dispatcher will get a truck moving toward you. More information is on our emergency towing page.