Road trip to San Miguel Allende – 5 Important Tips When Driving in Mexico

by West Coast Global Insurance West Coast Global Insurance

San Miguel de Allende is one of Mexico's most charming small cities. Located in the far eastern part of Guanajuato, it is a vibrant, colonial-era city with a bustling nightlife and a plethora of fine dining options. If the stress of the daily grind has gotten to you, or if you simply need a relaxing getaway, it is time for you to visit San Miguel de Allende.

While crossing the US-Mexico border by car is easy, there are a few things to keep in mind when driving in San Miguel de Allende:

Buy car insurance.

Once you cross the border, your American liability insurance is no longer valid. To drive in San Miguel de Allende or anywhere else in Mexico, you are legally required to have Mexican auto insurance. If you are involved in an auto accident in San Miguel de Allende and cannot establish financial liability, you could end up in jail and/or pay thousands of dollars in fines. Buying auto insurance in Mexico can help you avoid time behind bars and other penalties. You can trust West Coast Global Insurance Services to secure the best auto insurance policy for your individual needs.

Know what turn signals mean.

As an American driver, you know that turn indicators indicate the intention to turn. In Mexico, however, turn signals can have different meanings. For example, if you are driving along a Mexican highway and the vehicle in front of you uses its left turn signal, it could mean that you have the clearance to pass.

Know about driving on the shoulder.

You should drive on the shoulder if you see an oncoming vehicle trying to pass another vehicle in your lane. It is also okay to pass vehicles on the right shoulder but do it quickly because Mexican drivers often use every inch of the road to keep the traffic moving.

Drive on toll roads.

Expect to encounter poor road conditions if you venture off the main route in your car. The Department of State advises all American tourists visiting Mexico to avoid backstreets in favor of toll roads, or "cuotas." These roadways are in excellent condition and will assist you in reaching your destination quickly. Additionally, it is wise to stick to cuotas because emergency assistance in Mexico may be limited outside of popular tourist destinations such as San Miguel de Allende.

Avoid driving at night.

Additionally, the Department of State advises American tourists to drive only during the daytime, as the risk of an accident is significantly higher at night. Most Mexican roadways lack adequate overhead lighting, making it nearly impossible to see potholes or speed bumps at night.

Get Your Mexico Tourist Auto Insurance Quote Today!

If you are driving to San Miguel de Allende, West Coast Global Insurance Services has made it easy to protect yourself from the unexpected. Please fill out their Mexico Auto Insurance Application to get a quote for the best Mexican insurance online for your needs in a few easy steps.