Why would someone decide to drive their own car into Mexico, rather than just hop on a plane and fly to that beachy resort? There are many great reasons visitors to our sunny southern neighbor decide to bring their own wheels, including:
· Having the freedom to explore wherever you want to go
· Flexibility, you can set your own pace make spontaneous detours and explore off-the-beaten-path towns
· Bringing your stuff with you (including your faithful 4-legged friend)
· Traveling is more comfortable in your own car
So, if your trip to Mexico involves some exploring around the country and you want to do that on your time, bringing a car makes sense. But there are some things any wandering traveler in a foreign land needs to know – and first and foremost is that purchasing Mexican car insurance is mandatory.
Your American car insurance is not recognized in Mexico and you don’t want to get caught footloose and fancy free without the right protection (more on that later). So, while you are checking items off your to-do list prior to venturing forth, check in with Sanborn’s Mexican Car Insurance to find affordable Mexico car insurance online.
Mexican Car Insurance
Purchasing Mexican car insurance is the law. Luckily, you can do that before you leave and bonus – you can do it online. Some U.S. insurance companies may claim they sell something called “coverage by endorsement.” Don’t be fooled: This insurance is typically only good for a short distance into Mexico (around 25 miles) and include many limitations. If you are involved in an at-fault accident without the right kind of coverage, you can go to jail and even have your vehicle impounded.
Plus, you’ll want to make sure you are covered for any eventuality, so your trip is as relaxing and stress free as possible. Here’s what is covered with a policy from Sanborn’s Mexican auto insurance:
· Civil Liability: This is what keeps you and your car out of a Mexican jail if you get into an accident while traversing the countryside. It pays for bodily injury and property damage to others if you cause an accident (and let’s face it – you are going to be driving on unfamiliar roads with unfamiliar rules).
· Physical Damage and Total Theft: Most seasoned travelers to Mexico (and really anywhere) will tell you that theft is an issue. This coverage will help you recover financially if your vehicle is damaged or stolen, if you get into a collision, or your vehicle is affected by fire, lightning and other natural disasters.
· Insured Amount: Your vehicle is protected for actual cash value (ACV). This is why you shouldn’t fudge on your form when filling out the ACV.
· Medical Expenses: You’ll be able to choose how much coverage you want for the occupants of your vehicle for medical bills. Coverage is available up to $20,000 for each occupant with a max of $100,000 for all occupants combined.
· Medical, Travel, Roadside and Legal Assistance: If you are, by chance, thrown in jail after a covered event, you’ll have access to bail bond money and legal services. Roadside services are available 24/7/365 for things such as flat tires (and if you aren’t familiar with Mexico’s proliferation of “topes” or speed bumps, you soon will be).
· Motorcycles, ATVs and Golf Carts: Coverage is available for street legal vehicles.
Once you’ve driven in Mexico, you’ll come to appreciate the items and protections on this list. So, let’s dive into some pros and cons of your upcoming driving experience.
Driving in Mexico
If you’ve decided you want to have the freedom of the open road or you are planning a multi-stop visit and don’t want to be tied down to a timetable, then bringing your vehicle to Mexico makes sense. As with anything, having the necessary information will make your trip that much more stress free.
The Land of the Mariachi, with fiestas and sunny days, lies at your feet. Like the conquistadores of old, you (and possibly your trusty 4-legged pal) are ready to sally forth and explore ruins and Pueblos Magicos, like Cholula and Teotihuacan.
With your own vehicle, you can go pretty much anywhere you want, anytime you want. Something strike your fancy? Stay and explore for a while. Found a mystical place to camp? Stake your tent and settle in. Since you’ve brought your home away from home, you should have all the supplies you need.
You’ve decided to be a nomad in this southern land, so take the time to soak in the sun and start living your life on Mexican time: plenty of siesta time and where showing up late is encouraged.
Thousands of tourists and visitors drive into Mexico every year. Being aware of your surroundings and having some well-researched information in your head will go a long way. Don’t forget that when you purchase your insurance from Sanborn’s, you’ve also got a friend on the road with you who you can call anytime for help.
A Few Last Notes About Driving in Mexico
Remember, Mexican car insurance is mandatory. There are a few other items you need to check off the mandatory list before hitting the road.
· Proof of citizenship (passport or U.S.-issued birth certificate)
· Proof of car registration
· Temporary Importation Permit (TIP)
· Government-issued tourist card (FMM)
As with visiting any country, have fun but be respectful of the local population and tourist sites.
Find Affordable Mexican Car Insurance
The professionals at Sanborn’s Mexican Car Insurance have been helping U.S. travelers find affordable and legal car insurance for more than 75 years. You can find plenty of helpful information on their website to make your trip safe and stress free. Give them a call today at (800) 222-0158, check them out online for a free quote or stop by one of many convenient locations along the U.S./Mexico border.