Why Do I need Mexican Car Insurance?

First and foremost, you must have Mexican car insurance issued by a Mexican Insurance company to drive in Mexico because it’s required by law. Many thousands of visitors drive from the U.S. to Mexico every year without any problems. However, if there is an accident or you are pulled over for any reason, you must show Mexican car insurance. If you do not, you might be fined for up to a $1,000.

And no, it doesn’t matter how good your car insurance is in the states, it won’t pass the test in Mexico.

But why exactly does Mexico require its own car insurance? Let’s dive into that, plus some other travel tips if you are planning to mosey on down south in the next few months or during the new year for some fiesta time.

If you want to talk to experts who have been helping drivers from the U.S. navigate the rules and regulations of driving in Mexico for 75 years, reach out to the folks at Sanborn’s Mexico Auto Insurance.

Mexico’s Rules for the Road

There are plenty of reasons why Mexico requires drivers from other countries to carry Mexican car liability insurance. In Mexico a car accident is not only a civil matter but a criminal as well. Just as you cannot legally drive in the U.S. with Mexican car insurance, you cannot legally drive in Mexico with American car insurance.

Plus, your U.S. auto insurance company is not valid in Mexico if you are involved in a wreck while driving in Mexico.

Here are some specific reasons why and how to follow the rules.

• Arrest and detainment: If you are involved in a serious accident where someone is hurt or killed, you may be arrested until authorities figure out who is to blame for the wreck. Your length of detainment could well be determined by your insurance company’s willingness to offer compensation if you are found to be at fault. Always choose a reputable insurer (more on that later).
• Vehicle impoundment: Your vehicle may be impounded and you may be arrested if you cannot prove you have the proper insurance when stopped.
• Know your provider: And by that, we don’t mean invite them over for some cervezas and BBQ. It means research the company that’s underwriting the policy. You’ll want a company that is a stable and strong insurance carrier. Years in business is a good indicator of a strong, financially-sound insurer.
• Policy inclusions: Mexican car insurance policies must include third party liability and legal aid. You may choose optional coverages such as physical damage, theft, medical expenses partial theft, vandalism, and roadside assistance. Although these are not required, they offer peace of mind.
• Local support: If something happens while you are traveling in a foreign country, you want a partner who understands the laws, speaks your language and is available to help when you need it most.

Remember to read your policy so you are familiar with the procedures you need to take in the event of an accident or incident. You must make any claim regarding an accident in Mexico while you are in Mexico. Your policy may be void if you wait until you are back in the states. Always stay at the scene of an accident and call you insurance company’s claims first. Do not allow anybody else to make the call for you.

What Does Mexican Auto Insurance Cover?

Your Mexican car insurance policy may include several options to help you stay safe and have peace of mind while driving in sunny Mexico. Although liability auto insurance is the only coverage mandatory while driving in Mexico, it is important to take into consideration if your vehicle is financed and how much you owe to the bank to protect it as well.

Mexican Liability Auto Insurance works different in Mexico, the settlement for an at-fault-accident that results in the death of a third party is calculated using a formula that includes 5,000 times minimum wage and the minimum wage varies by state, and then each state can determine to multiple all this by 5. As you can see it is important to carry high limits of liability to be protected while driving in Mexico.

As with insurance in the states, liability will help pay for injuries, death and property damage others suffer if you cause an accident. It will not pay for injuries you and your passengers have or damage to your vehicle.

That’s why you may want to consider adding some of the following coverages:

• Physical damage: Helps pay for damages and theft to your vehicle.
• Medical payments: Helps pay for medical costs if you or your passengers are hurt in an accident.
• Legal assistance: Helps pay for legal costs, such as attorney fees, bail bonds and court expenses if you get into a car accident.
• Roadside assistance: Will help pay for a tow truck, locksmith and other services if you have a break down while driving in Mexico.

How much coverage you elect to purchase for your trip is a matter requiring thoughtful consideration and depends on where you are going, how long you’ll be traveling and other variables. Let one of the Sanborn’s Mexico Insurance agents help you determine the coverage you need.

Buy Affordable Mexican Car Insurance Before Your Trip

Driving to a foreign country can be stressful. There are steps you can take in advance to prepare for this amazing journey. Besides reading up on common customs, road conditions and more, purchasing your required car insurance online in advance will check one important item off that list.

Reach out to the experts at Sanborn’s Mexico Auto Insurance for some guidance. They’ve been helping drivers take safe and enjoyable trips into Mexico for more than 75 years. You can purchase Mexico car insurance online, give them a call at (800) 222-0158 or stop in locations in all border states.