The Right Way To Get Mexican Auto Insurance

If you're planning a trip to Mexico and intend to drive while you're there, it's important to know that you'll need Mexican auto insurance. That's because US or Canadian insurance is not recognised in Mexico, and you are required by law to have Mexico insurance for your vehicle. You can buy a separate Mexican auto insurance policy from a Mexican insurance company or a US company that works with Mexican insurers, like Baja Bound, Geico, or Progressive through MexPro. The cost of Mexican auto insurance varies depending on the length of your trip and the level of coverage you need, but it's important to get the right coverage to ensure you're protected in the event of an accident or other issues.

Why you need Mexican auto insurance

If you're planning a road trip to Mexico, it's important to understand the country's auto insurance requirements. Mexican law requires that all vehicles have car insurance, and your US or Canadian insurance policy won't be enough to cover you. Here's why you need Mexican auto insurance:

Mexican Law Requires Car Insurance

Mexico has strict car insurance laws that require all drivers to have a minimum of third-party liability insurance. This means that if you cause an accident, your insurance must cover the bodily injuries and property damage to others. The recommended coverage minimum is around $300,000, but it's a good idea to get the maximum amount of liability coverage available, as it can vary by state and situation.

US/Canadian Insurance Policies Don't Apply

Your US or Canadian car insurance policy will not be recognised in Mexico and will not be sufficient to cover any damages in the event of an accident. Mexican authorities only recognise insurance provided by a licensed Mexican insurance company, and US/Canadian policies specifically exclude coverage outside of their own country.

It's Easy and Affordable to Get Mexican Auto Insurance

You can purchase Mexican auto insurance online through a trusted car insurance company, or through a US company that works with Mexican insurers. It's best to buy coverage before your trip, as it can be more expensive to purchase a policy at the border. Policies are typically priced daily, semi-annually, or annually, and you can find one that fits your length of stay.

The Consequences of No Insurance Can Be Severe

If you are in an accident or are stopped by the police and cannot show proof of Mexican auto insurance, you may face serious consequences. Mexican law considers traffic accidents both civil and criminal offences, and you are presumed guilty until proven innocent. You can be arrested, have your vehicle impounded, and face heavy penalties and fines.

Protect Yourself and Your Vehicle

In addition to liability coverage, you may want to consider other types of coverage such as physical damage coverage, medical payments, legal assistance, and roadside assistance. These can help cover the cost of repairs or medical expenses for you and your passengers, as well as provide legal representation if needed.

In summary, Mexican auto insurance is a necessity for anyone planning to drive in Mexico. It's important to understand the local laws and requirements to ensure you have the proper coverage and can fully enjoy your time in Mexico.

Where to buy Mexican auto insurance

If you're planning a trip to Mexico and intend to drive there, it's important to know that you'll need Mexican auto insurance. US or Canadian insurance is not recognised in Mexico, and you are required by law to have third-party liability insurance to cover any damage caused in an accident.

There are several companies that offer Mexican auto insurance, including:

GEICO Insurance Agency

GEICO can help you get a Mexican insurance policy that suits your needs, whether you're driving a car, RV, motorcycle, or ATV/UTV. They offer short and long-term options, with extended coverage available for physical damage, theft, liability, vandalism, partial theft, medical payments, and more. You can get a quote, select your coverage, pay online, and receive instant proof of insurance.

Progressive

Progressive offers Mexico Auto Insurance by MexPro, with three different coverage levels that can be kept for as long as you need—from one day to one year. The coverage levels include liability, travel assistance, medical payments, and legal assistance. You can get an online quote to begin.

Baja Bound

Baja Bound are Mexican insurance specialists with over 25 years of experience. They offer great rates and coverage, flexible policy terms, full coverage policies, and a 24/7 assistance hotline. You can get a quote on their website.

Lewis and Lewis Mexican Auto Insurance

Lewis and Lewis have been providing Mexican auto insurance since 1983. They offer a range of coverage options, including vehicles, homes, medical, life, boat liability, and more. Their coverage plans range from one day to yearly options, with competitive rates. You can purchase insurance online, by mail, or by facsimile.

What Mexican auto insurance covers

Mexican law requires all drivers, including tourists, to have liability coverage. This means that if you're planning to drive in Mexico, you'll need to purchase a separate Mexican auto insurance policy, as your existing US or Canadian insurance won't be valid.

Mexican auto insurance policies typically include the following types of coverage:

• Liability insurance is required by law in Mexico and covers property damage and injuries caused to others in an accident. The minimum requirement is 100,000 Mexican pesos (around $5,000) for bodily injury and death liability coverage, and 50,000 Mexican pesos (around $2,500) for property liability damage. However, it's recommended to get a higher level of coverage for greater financial protection.
• Bail and legal assistance coverage will cover your bail and legal fees if you're detained after an accident.
• Physical damage coverage covers your vehicle for damage resulting from accidents, riots, natural disasters, etc.
• Medical payments coverage helps cover the cost of treating injuries to you and your passengers after an accident.
• Total theft coverage covers the value of your vehicle if it's stolen.
• Partial theft and vandalism coverage pays for the value of stolen or vandalised items that were permanently attached to your vehicle, like tyres or a radio.

In addition to these standard coverages, some insurers also offer optional extras such as breakdown support and medical evacuation services.

When purchasing Mexican auto insurance, it's important to buy from a reputable company that's licensed in Mexico and has a good claims satisfaction rate. You should also make sure that your policy includes liability coverage, legal assistance, and a bail bond.

What documents you need to buy Mexican auto insurance

When driving in Mexico, it is important to have the correct documentation and insurance. Mexican law requires all vehicles to have car insurance, and your US or Canadian car insurance policy alone will not be sufficient to satisfy Mexican Federal Liability Law. Here is a list of documents you will need to buy Mexican auto insurance:

• Dates of your travel in Mexico: You will need to provide the dates that you will be entering and exiting Mexico.
• Destinations in Mexico: You will also need to provide the places you will be travelling to in Mexico.
• Your US or Canadian car insurance policy number: You can find this on your proof of insurance or policy.
• Driver's license: If you are under 21, you may have to pay an additional fee.
• Year, make and model of your car: This is necessary information for your insurance provider.
• Vehicle identification number: This is another important detail for your insurance provider.
• License plate number: You will need to provide your license plate number.

It is also important to note that you must buy a separate Mexican liability insurance policy from a licensed Mexican insurance company. You can typically buy it from a company that works with Mexican insurers, such as Baja Bound or Geico. Additionally, you should keep your insurance documentation handy, and it is recommended to have at least two copies of your Mexican car insurance documents, including your policy, claims instructions, and roadside assistance instructions. Keep one copy in your car and another copy in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.

Tips for driving in Mexico

Driving in Mexico can be a stressful experience, especially in the less-visited regions away from the beaches of the Yucatán peninsula. Here are some tips to help you navigate the roads and stay safe:

Know the Rules of the Road

In Mexico, speed and distance are measured in kilometres. For example, 50 km is 30 miles. Gasoline is sold by the litre, with 1 litre being equal to a little over 1/4 gallon. It's a good idea to be familiar with these conversions to avoid confusion while driving.

Be Prepared for Unique Driving Customs

In Mexico, the shoulder of a two-lane highway is often used as a third lane. If you're not passing someone, it's expected that you drive on the shoulder. If someone wants to pass you, move onto the shoulder until they do.

Another custom to be aware of is that a left turn signal from the car in front of you usually means they are letting you pass, rather than indicating a left turn. Do not turn on your left signal if you intend to switch lanes, as this indicates to the car behind you that it's okay to pass, which could lead to an accident.

Stop signs in Mexico are also treated more like yield signs. It is not customary to come to a complete stop if there is no oncoming traffic. Doing so may result in the car behind you running into you.

Watch Out for Obstacles

The roads in Mexico, particularly in the states of Oaxaca and Chiapas, are notorious for their large and abundant potholes. Keep a close eye on the road to avoid these hazards, which can cause flat tires and damage to your vehicle.

In addition to potholes, speed bumps (called "topes") are very common in Mexico, especially in Chiapas and Oaxaca. These are not subtle humps but rather aggressive mounds that require you to slow down significantly. Be prepared to come to a near-complete stop to navigate them safely.

Be Aware of Local Roadblocks

In poorer states like Oaxaca and Chiapas, locals may set up makeshift roadblocks to sell wares or extract money from travellers. They may hold a rope across the road and tell you the road ahead is blocked. If you feel generous, you can pull over and chat or offer something like a can of coke. If the situation seems threatening, it's best to keep driving, and they should drop the rope.

In some areas, you may encounter roadblocks set up by the Zapatistas, a separatist movement in Chiapas. They have been known to cut down trees and block main roads to restrict movement between their controlled territory and the rest of Mexico. Be prepared for potential diversions and delays.

Plan Your Route in Advance

Driving at night is not recommended in Mexico due to poor lighting, inconsistent signage, and the increased activity of drug cartels on the roads. Plan your trips to ensure you arrive at your destination before nightfall.

It's also a good idea to scrutinise your route in advance as police officers in Mexico may not be as helpful as they are in other countries. They may even make matters worse, as in the case of one traveller who recalled being sent down the wrong way on a highway by the police, leading to chaos and abuse from other motorists.

Keep Important Documents Handy

Make sure to have all the necessary documents with you when driving in Mexico, including your insurance policy, claims instructions, and roadside assistance instructions. It's recommended to have at least two copies: one in your car and another in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.

Additionally, ensure you have a Mexican tourist card (FMM) and a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP) if you are travelling beyond the Mexico Free or Border Zone, which includes areas along the northern and southern borders. Failure to have these documents may result in confiscation of your vehicle or even jail time.

In conclusion, driving in Mexico can be challenging, but with careful planning and an understanding of local customs and road conditions, you can navigate the roads safely and enjoy the beauty and culture that the country has to offer.

Frequently asked questions