Does Your Auto Insurance Cover You In Mexico?

If you're planning a road trip to Mexico, it's important to know that your regular auto insurance policy may not cover you. Mexican law requires all vehicles to have car insurance from a company licensed to sell insurance in Mexico. This means that your US or Canadian insurance is unlikely to be valid, and you'll need to purchase additional coverage. Some US insurance companies offer limited extensions or partner with Mexican insurers to provide the necessary coverage. Before hitting the road, make sure you understand the requirements and have the proper insurance in place to avoid fines or other legal consequences.

US auto insurance companies may offer limited coverage in Mexico

Some US insurance companies may offer a limited extension of vehicle theft and damages coverage up to a specific number of miles in Mexico. However, this does not meet the Mexican legal requirement of third-party liability insurance, so a separate Mexican liability insurance policy is needed.

US insurance companies that offer limited coverage in Mexico include:

• Allstate
• Geico
• Progressive
• Liberty Mutual
• Farmers
• Nationwide
• USAA
• The Hartford

These companies can help you secure Mexican car insurance policies that cover trips of varying durations, from one day to one year. However, you will need to pay a separate premium for this coverage, and it will only be valid for the selected dates.

It is important to carefully review your US auto insurance policy to understand the extent of your coverage in Mexico and to purchase additional Mexican liability insurance if needed.

You must buy a separate Mexican liability insurance policy

If you're planning a road trip to Mexico, it's important to understand the country's insurance requirements. Mexican law requires all vehicles to have car insurance, and your U.S. or Canadian insurance policy alone will not be sufficient. You must purchase a separate Mexican liability insurance policy from a licensed Mexican insurance company to comply with Mexican Federal Liability Law. This is because Mexican authorities do not recognize U.S. or Canadian insurance policies, and you could face fines and penalties if you don't have the required coverage.

So, what does this mean for you? Even if your U.S. or Canadian insurance company offers limited coverage in Mexico, it's essential to read the fine print. In most cases, this limited coverage only extends your collision and comprehensive insurance into Mexico and does not include the required liability coverage. As a result, you could be held financially responsible in the event of an accident.

To ensure you're properly insured, purchase a Mexican auto insurance policy before your trip. This can be done through a Mexican insurance company or a U.S. company that works with Mexican insurers, such as Baja Bound, Geico, or Progressive. You can typically find a policy that fits your length of stay, whether you're taking a short trip or an extended vacation. When purchasing a policy, you will need to provide information such as your U.S. car insurance policy number, driver's license, vehicle information, and travel details.

By obtaining a separate Mexican liability insurance policy, you can drive in Mexico with peace of mind, knowing that you're fulfilling the country's insurance requirements and protecting yourself financially in the event of an accident.

In addition to insurance, there are a few other important things to keep in mind when driving to Mexico. Don't forget to bring your proof of insurance, a copy of your policy, and your passport or other necessary identification documents. It's also recommended to have a Mexican tourist card (FMM) and a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP) if you're travelling beyond the Border Zone.

Mexican law requires all vehicles to have car insurance

This is because Mexican authorities do not recognize US or Canadian insurance coverage. If you are involved in a car accident in Mexico and are not insured, you will become personally responsible for any damage to the third party's vehicle. The authorities will pursue you for the costs of any repairs to the public highway, and if someone is hurt or killed, all drivers will be arrested. If you are deemed responsible, third parties will pursue liability damages against you.

Therefore, it is recommended that you always drive with adequate insurance in Mexico, as the risks of driving without it are significant, especially in the event of a serious accident. Good insurance policies offer legal counsel and bail bond services, so in the worst-case scenario, you have the legal support and financial assistance you need.

You can buy a separate Mexican auto insurance policy from a Mexican insurance company or a US company that works with Mexican insurers. This coverage can be purchased online through a trusted car insurance company before your trip, or at the border if you are making a spontaneous trip (although this may be more expensive).

You can buy Mexican car insurance from a US or Mexican company

If you are planning a trip to Mexico and intend to drive there, you will need to buy Mexican car insurance. This is because US or Canadian insurance is not valid in Mexico, and you could face serious consequences if you don't have the right cover.

To buy a Mexican car insurance policy, you will need to provide the following information:

• The dates you will be travelling in Mexico
• Where you will be travelling in Mexico
• Your US car insurance policy number
• Your driver's license (with an additional fee if you are under 21)
• The year, make and model of your car
• The vehicle identification number
• Your license plate number

When buying Mexican car insurance, it's a good idea to compare quotes from a few different companies to find the best price and coverage options for your needs.

Mexican liability insurance works differently than in the US

If you're planning to drive in Mexico, it's important to understand that Mexican liability insurance works differently than in the US. Here are some key points to consider:

Firstly, your US or Canadian auto insurance policy will not cover you in Mexico. While some US insurance companies may offer limited extensions for vehicle theft and damages within a certain mileage range of the border, this is not a substitute for a proper Mexican liability policy. This is because Mexican authorities do not recognize US or Canadian insurance coverage, and you must comply with Mexican Federal Liability Law.

Secondly, when purchasing a Mexican liability insurance policy, you will need to provide specific information, including the dates and locations of your travel in Mexico, your US car insurance policy number, driver's license, vehicle information, and more. This information is necessary to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your trip.

Thirdly, Mexican liability insurance typically includes two parts: third-party liability coverage and bodily injury coverage. Third-party liability coverage pays for damages caused to other people's property, while bodily injury coverage pays for injuries caused to other people in an accident. It is important to note that liability insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle or injuries to yourself and your passengers.

Additionally, the amount of coverage required by Mexican law can vary by state, and it is recommended to purchase a higher amount of coverage to ensure you are adequately protected. For example, if you cause an accident that results in a death, Mexican law may require your insurance to pay a significant amount, including the Mexican state's minimum wage multiplied by 5,000, plus funeral expenses, per person. This amount can then be multiplied by up to five times, depending on the state.

Finally, when purchasing Mexican liability insurance, consider additional coverages such as physical damage coverage, medical payments, legal assistance, roadside assistance, and medical evacuation. These coverages can provide valuable protection in the event of an accident or emergency during your trip.

Frequently asked questions