If you're planning a road trip to Mexico, you're probably thinking about hotels, restaurants, destinations, and other details. However, have you considered purchasing specific car insurance for your trip? Mexico, like the United States, has specific car insurance laws that require drivers to carry a minimum amount of coverage. In addition to following the law, you must have car insurance to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of an accident. Learn why you need Mexico auto insurance and how to get quality coverage before your big trip.
What Exactly Is Mexico Auto Insurance?
Mexico car insurance refers to the type of coverage required by Americans when visiting Mexico because the Mexican government does not accept American car insurance. As a result, if you're planning a business or leisure trip to Mexico, you'll need car insurance that's specifically tailored to Mexico's rules and regulations.
Mexican Automobile Insurance Requirements
All drivers and tourists on the road in Mexico are required by law to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. If you get into an accident, your liability insurance will cover any bodily harm or property damage sustained by the other party. Mexican liability insurance, like all liability insurance, is designed to protect you from financial loss if you cause someone else's injuries.
What Are the Differences Between Mexican and American Insurance Laws?
If you're already familiar with liability insurance, the information above may be old hat. Despite the similarities between American and Mexican liability insurance, Mexican insurance laws differ from those in the United States.
For example, if you cause a fatal accident in Mexico, their insurance laws require you to pay a large fee in addition to the recently deceased's funeral expenses. The fee is equal to the Mexican state minimum wage multiplied by 5,000, plus funeral expenses. Furthermore, depending on the judge, this fee can be increased by up to five times. This could cost you a lot of money if you don't have car insurance.
Optional Mexican Auto Insurance Coverage
We understand that liability insurance is required when visiting Mexico, but most people choose more comprehensive coverage to protect their assets during their trip. Comprehensive Mexican travel insurance may cover the following items:
Medical expense coverage—pays for medical treatments for you or your passengers in the event of an accident.
Travel assistance coverage, like roadside assistance, pays for car repairs and other services if your vehicle breaks down, runs out of gas, or leaves you stranded on the side of the road.
Legal assistance coverage—pays for your legal expenses, such as an attorney, court costs, and bail, if you are involved in a car accident and are taken to court.
Physical damage and theft coverage compensates you if your car is stolen or damaged on the road.
Visiting Mexico in a rented car?
If you're leasing a car, you'll need a "letter of permission" to bring it into Mexico before crossing the border. Most leasing companies require comprehensive coverage on financed vehicles, so inquire with your leasing office about their insurance requirements before purchasing a policy, and remember to show them proof of insurance to obtain the necessary documentation before your trip.
Mexican auto insurance.
Protect yourself and your passengers by purchasing a Mexican insurance policy. In many cases, your current auto insurance might extend coverage to certain areas of Mexico. Always speak with our agent to determine your needs.