Driving in Mexico – MUST DO’s Before crossing the Border

by West Coast Global Insurance West Coast Global Insurance

Imagine the thrill of driving in a foreign country — the awe-inspiring scenery and the sense of complete freedom on the road. This is why thousands of Americans cross the border into Mexico for a road trip of their own. However, proper planning is essential for any Mexico road trip.

Learn the road signs.

If this is your first time driving south of the border, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with as many Mexican road signs as possible before hitting the road. While many road signs in Mexico adhere to international standards and are pretty self-explanatory, some road signs are unique to the country. This may pose some challenges for American tourists using the country’s road network. So, whether you plan to drive your own car south of the border or rent a car in Mexico, make sure you familiarize yourself with the road signs in Mexico to get around safely.

Plan out the locations of gas stations for your road trip.

You do not want to go out of your way to locate gas stations when you are on a road trip in Mexico. Fortunately, gas stations are plentiful throughout Mexico and should be easy to find with Google Maps. Given that Google Maps is the preferred navigation app, it includes the functionality to locate gas stations on your route. We always recommended to map gas stations that are on your way to your destination so you can plan accordingly and never run to low on fuel when driving in Mexico.

Drive during the day.

One of the most common pieces of advice you have probably heard about when driving in Mexico is avoiding driving during the night when the roads are harder to see and more dark. Why? For one thing, there have been multiple reports of organized crime in certain parts of Mexico — especially in states like Guanajuato, Zacatecas, Michoacán, Jalisco, and Querétaro. Crime rates tend to rise after dark, so you may face danger if you drive at night in these areas.

Not only that, but infrastructure in many parts of Mexico is not as developed as in cities. Local roads are often neglected — even unpaved — with damaged shoulders, potholes, and other issues, and many rural routes lack street lighting. There have even been reports of stray livestock in some farming communities. These animals include — cattle and horses in particular — and they could unexpectedly wander into highways and roads at any time.

Drive during the day for better visibility and safety.

Buy Mexican car insurance

Many Americans are surprised to find out that their car insurance from the United States does not cover them once they are south of the border driving in Mexico. It is worth mentioning that some U.S.-based insurance companies may offer a limited extension of vehicle theft and damage coverage up to a certain distance — usually only 25 to 50 miles. But this coverage is not guaranteed unless you see the coverage detailed in your policy conditions. Plus you want to be sure when you are driving in Mexico you meet the requirements of Mexican law and have an active Mexican Insurance auto policy that was written by a Mexican insurance carrier. A proper written policy will meet the requirements of Mexican Law and provide the minimum coverages required to stay safe & legal.

Auto insurance for Mexico issued by a Mexican insurance company is required. Contact a reputable insurance agency like West Coast Global Insurance so they can assist with helping you secure a policy that meets your individual needs. They can help prove your financial responsibility with a properly written Mexican insurance auto policy and save you from facing the jail time or unwanted penalties should you get involved in a car accident in Mexico.

Get Your Mexico Tourist Auto Insurance Quote Today!

If you are driving to Mexico, West Coast Global Insurance has made it easier easy to protect yourself from the unexpected. Click this link and secure a Mexican Car insurance policy in a few easy steps. Fast & reliable Mexican insurance online.