Why Mexican Car insurance is critical when driving in Mexico
Traveling to Mexico by car is an enjoyable experience for many Americans in most cases. However, it is important to know that the laws in Mexico on road are quite different and you can find yourself in trouble if you don’t have Mexican car insurance.
Mexican car insurance is mandated by law
Mexican car insurance is required for traveling by road in Mexico. The minimum requirement is liability insurance, and if you are unable to provide proof of this it is considered a crime. Your US car insurance is NOT acceptable in Mexico, even if your policy covers you for travel in Mexico, unless your insurance provider is an accredited provider by the Mexican government. If you are not sure if your company is accredited, it is best to buy additional Mexican car insurance at least for the duration of your stay in the country or contact us!
Other Mexican car insurance is advisable
If you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident or an incident that involves injury or property damage to another party, your liability insurance will only cover the injury and damages sustained by the other party, not your own. To keep your exposure to a minimum, have a comprehensive Mexican car insurance policy from an accredited agency that covers liability, personal injury and collision damages. This will cover the costs of repair or replacement of your vehicle. This is especially important if the accident is serious and if you are in a rented car. You could face thousands in bills for repair or replacement of a rented car if you are not covered by Mexican car insurance.
Mexican car insurance can provide legal assistance
Drivers in Mexico are somewhat less disciplined than those in the US because the laws are not as stringent. Many states don’t even have driving under the influence (DUI) laws. Also, road signs are slightly different, so you could get a little confused by them if you don’t make a point to get familiar with them. As a foreigner, you can be at a disadvantage if you get involved in an accident even if it is not your fault. Your Mexican car insurance should include legal and bail assistance in case of any eventuality if it is from a reputable company. Check and make sure that you have this option, which hopefully you will never have to use.
You can have a great time in Mexico when you travel by car but you need to be aware of the pitfalls that may be attached to this method of seeing the country. Mexican car insurance should be one of the first things you should arrange for before anything else, and make sure that you have the coverage you need for a happy and worry-free stay in Mexico.