Travel Tips for Driving in Mexico

Some take weekend RV trips into Mexico and have a great time, while others are going for the Mexican culture, touring, as well as shopping. After all, it’s so much fun to “bargain” at the border with the street vendors. Rosarito Beach is known for its scrumptious lobster at a great price!

Many people travel across the border daily for prescriptions, dental care and for other medical purposes. Some cross the border to conduct business.

It’s not just Southern Californians who enjoy going across the border, many people from the “border cities” of Arizona, New Mexico and Texas also take daily or weekend trips into Mexico.

However, did you know it is suggested that you ALWAYS obtain Mexican Automobile Insurance prior to crossing the border.

• Mexican law requires that drivers from out of their country must be financially liable for any physical damage or bodily injury they might cause. Mexican authorities do NOT recognize American or Canadian issued auto insurance as valid, regardless that the American policy has “Mexican” coverage.
• If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident in Mexico, it is likely that you will be detained until the local authorities can determine who is at fault. Even if you are not at fault, under Mexican law, motorists are required to have Mexican Auto Insurance, or officials will want proof of financial responsibility and will expect you to post a bond to cover estimated costs before you will be released. You could end up without a way to recover damages unless you have purchased your own policy. Financial responsibility can be demonstrated either by possession of cash, approximately $5,000.00-$10,000.00, or by possession of Mexican Auto Insurance through an authorized company.
• If you are at fault in an accident, you will likely be detained by the police until they have determined you can make payment to the other party.

Driving Tips in Mexico:

• Be sure to have your car serviced prior to leaving on your trip.
• Drive slowly and cautiously in Mexico, as driving conditions often are much different in the US or Canada.
• Know your route for safety by stopping by the Mexican Tourism Office or Travel Clubs.
• Never drive your vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Getting into an accident would be bad enough. Don’t let it ruin your vacation travel plans by not having the proper coverage. It’s not worth the risk and consequences to not purchase a policy before you go to Mexico. Fortunately, it is inexpensive and easy to get a Mexican car insurance policy.

Prior to traveling to Mexico, travelers should make their own inquiries into Mexican law. This article does not include all available information regarding traveling in Mexico.