Tip for Driving in Mexico

Driving in Mexico is no more hazardous than driving anywhere else. Everywhere it is different than driving in the United States or Canada. There are simply different things you have to be on the lookout for.

Mexican car insurance is a must if you plan to do anything more than a quick hop across the border since, in the case of an accident Mexican authorities will not accept foreign auto insurance policies.

Although there are reports of people being stopped and their property being stolen while on an isolated road, there are few reports of people actually being injured. The best way to avoid this is to drive during the day and not to stop for hitchhikers.

Try to restrict driving in Mexico daylight hours. This is common sense wherever you drive since road signs are easier to read, road hazards are easier to see and avoid and there are normally more cars traveling the same road you are.

Always be aware of livestock. In Mexico, livestock creates a large problem because of a lack of fencing around the highways. Livestock are normally left to roam wherever they can find food and this is sometimes near a well traveled road. Remember that most people do not use their turn signals and not all cars you see on the road have functioning brake lights. Avoid accidents by keeping your distance, using your turn signals and being aware of those who don't.

Always know who has the right of way. This means you will want to slow down at all intersections and look both ways whether you are required to or not; it also means you will want to yield to larger vehicles that want to occupy your same lane space.

Take a good road map along with you and know where your stops are going to be.

Keep free space in front, behind and beside you when driving; obey the speed limits; use your turn signals; and always make sure your vehicle is in good condition and that you have plenty of spare parts.

Buy a basic Spanish phrase book before your trip. Learning how to tell someone you need a mechanic (necesito un mecánico), help changing a tire (necesito ayuda para cambiar la llanta) or directions (donde está or como llego a) can be very useful. Even if you can't pronounce it quite right, people will usually get the message and be able to effectively communicate to you what you need to know.

Just in case you’re considering risking the trip without Mexican auto insurance, consider the following:
When a traffic accident does occur, the police may impound your vehicle, especially if there is no one there to help you defend your rights such as an insurance adjuster and/or an attorney. Also know that in the event that someone is injured and you are found responsible, you might not only be held liable for those persons medical expenses but also for financially supporting them and their dependents until they recover. To learn more about Mexico and it's wonderful beauty visit our Mexico information pages.