Insurance In Mexico, Auto Insurance | Oscar Padilla's Mexican Insurance (2024)

The Mexican Riviera is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its warm climate, beautiful beaches and rich culture, it's easy to see why people flock to this country every year. But before you plan your trip to Mexico, think about safety and purchasing car insurance coverage!

In this blog post we will find out what border crossing is considered the safest, which roads have the best safety rating for tourists, and more, so read on!

What is the safest border crossing into Mexico?

A safe trip south of the US-MX border is the best way to have a great time. It's important that you have all of your pre-trip preparations in order before embarking on your journey. Besides the passport and other paperwork to keep in mind, one big part of this is picking which border crossing will be safest for you. Here's a couple of things to take into consideration when choosing a border crossing:

  • What is the terrain like?
  • Is it a busy crossing?
  • If the crossing is popular, what are the busiest hours?
  • Are there any risks of crime and violence?

Given all relevant factors, the safest crossing is Laredo-Colombia Border Crossing, located on the Laredo-Colombia Solidarity International Bridge. Here are three factors that make it so safe:

  • First of all, it has the fewest amount of traffic with only around 100,000 vehicles per year.
  • Secondly, the terrain is very hilly and curvy, making it difficult for people to speed. This makes for a much slower crossing and less opportunity for accidents to happen.
  • Finally, this border crossing is located in a rural area which means that there is less opportunity for crime to take place.

What are some of the busiest border crossings?

San Diego - Tijuana

With over 26 million vehicles per year, it's no wonder why San Diego - Tijuana border crossing is the most popular. The terrain is relatively flat and it has a very busy schedule, with people coming and going 24/7. Because of its high traffic volume, it can be a bit more dangerous, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

El Paso - Ciudad Juárez

With over 18 million vehicles per year, this border crossing sees a lot of action. The terrain is mostly flat and has minimal curves. This makes for a smooth ride but can be dangerous if you're not paying attention to the road. It's much less crowded than it used to be, but still sees plenty of traffic during certain periods - weekends mostly.

The Ojinaga - Presidio

This border crossing has about one million vehicles every year coming through here. The landscape is mostly flat, but the path does have some curves. It's not as busy as other crossings so it can be a bit safer for those who are looking to avoid crowds while still getting across safely. This crossing has been known to experience heavy fog during certain months of the year, so make sure you're prepared if that happens!

What is the safest route to drive through Mexico?

The all-time favorite route among casual tourists and surfing enthusiasts is the Pacific Route. It has the following advantages:

  1. It’s well-maintained and has good infrastructure. This means that the roads are in good condition and there are plenty of gas stations and other amenities along the way.
  2. The route is lightly traveled. This means that you're less likely to encounter dangerous traffic conditions or criminal activity.
  3. There are many military checkpoints along the way. These provide one of the most effective deterrents to drug cartel activity, since no criminal wants to get caught by soldiers!
  4. It's a scenic route and provides many opportunities for sightseeing. You'll see amazing beaches like Playa de Los Muertos in Manzanillo.
  5. It offers many options for experienced and amateur surfers
  6. It’s one of the most affordable routes through Mexico. You'll save money on gas and food costs by taking this route.

Who do I call when I need Mexico car insurance coverage?

Oscar Padilla Mexican Insurance is your leading provider of all types of policies, that will keep you, your passengers, and your vehicle safe on your journey. Whether you’re travelling as a family with kids to see the abundance of amusem*nt parks and water resorts, or you’re out to see the world-famous historical sites and museums, you can trust us to have you covered.

If you’re in any doubt or have additional questions about our services, you can reach us at (800) 466-7227. We’re always glad to help!

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Insurance In Mexico, Auto Insurance | Oscar Padilla's Mexican Insurance (2024)

FAQs

Does my auto insurance cover my vehicle in Mexico? ›

Your US auto insurance policy won't cover your car if you drive into Mexico. To have coverage while driving in Mexico, you need to buy a separate Mexico tourist auto policy.

How much does Mexican auto insurance cost? ›

Similar to car insurance policies in the U.S., Mexican car insurance costs will vary from provider to provider and from person to person. For most providers, rates can be anywhere between $1 to $70 per day depending on your length of stay and vehicle type; we'll do a deep dive into both below.

What is Mexico insurance coverage? ›

Mexico coverage refers to (1) the coverage provided under certain nonstandard automobile policies issued by US insurers for operation of an insured motor vehicle within Mexico, usually limited to a stated number of miles from the US border.

What car insurance is mandatory in Mexico? ›

Mexican law requires all drivers, including U.S. tourists who plan to drive in the country, to have liability coverage. The minimum requirements are: 100,000 Mexican pesos (around $5,000) for bodily injury and death liability coverage.

What happens if I get in a car accident in Mexico? ›

Your Mexican auto insurance company will help you after a car accident. Be sure to contact them as soon as possible. Call the police first! Your Mexican auto insurance policy will provide you with bail bond insurance, as well as accident insurance if you purchased that coverage.

Does AAA insurance cover you in Mexico? ›

Since U.S. liability insurance is invalid in Mexico, you'll need proof of Mexico auto insurance for a road trip south of the border. AAA can help you get what's required through one of Mexico's largest and most reputable insurance companies.

Can you buy Mexican car insurance at the border? ›

Mexican car insurance at the border is typically far more expensive that purchasing a temporary Mexico policy ahead of time. So while it may be possible to get coverage at the border, you can save money and the hassle of purchasing at the border by getting a Mexico auto insurance policy ahead of your trip.

Does Mexican car insurance work in United States? ›

Mexpro's policies provide liability coverage that is required by law when driving in the United States, as well as medical expense coverage.

Can a Mexican car be insured in the US? ›

Short-term third-party liability insurance

Policies for Mexican-plated vehicles driving into the USA and Canada can be purchased on a short-term basis only—you select the number of days you intend to visit the US/Canada as part of the quotation process.

Does full coverage cover accidents in Mexico? ›

You Still Need Insurance. Unfortunately, regardless of how comprehensive your US insurance policy is, it won't cover you while driving in Mexico. Therefore, you must buy a separate insurance cover if you cross the border in your own car.

Does Geico work in Mexico? ›

The GEICO Insurance Agency can help you get affordable insurance in Mexico. So, whether you need a policy for a few days, 6 months, or a year, you can get the coverage you need.

Do you need car insurance to rent a car in Mexico? ›

Mexico Insurance provides a customer with liability and asset protection necessary to be in compliance with Mexican law while visiting Mexico. Mexican law requires this insurance to drive into Mexico. Mexico insurance can only be purchased at the rental counter and not online.

How much liability insurance is needed in Mexico? ›

You might be required to pay indemnification of up to $300,000 US dollars per death resulting from an at-fault accident. To be protected from this potential liability, we recommend that you carry at least $300,000 CSL liability limits for Mexican Auto Insurance.

Does Mexico have free insurance? ›

Public healthcare has an elaborate provisioning and delivery system instituted by the Mexican government. It is provided to all Mexican citizens, as guaranteed by Article 4 of the Constitution. Public care is fully or partially subsidized by the federal government, depending upon the person's employment status.

Can you use your insurance in Mexico? ›

Unfortunately, regardless of how comprehensive your US insurance policy is, it won't cover you while driving in Mexico. Therefore, you must buy a separate insurance cover if you cross the border in your own car. This liability insurance must be purchased from a company that is licensed in Mexico.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico with US plates? ›

The short answer to the titled question is yes, it is safe to drive in Mexico with US plates. No major issues will present themselves.

How many miles into Mexico does my insurance cover? ›

It is better to think of this as covering only your vehicle losses in Mexico, but it cannot cover your financial responsibility to others (liability). Mileage restriction - Generally, U.S. auto policies have a mileage restriction into Mexico (usually between 25-100 miles).

Does US medical insurance work in Mexico? ›

Your employer-provided health plan may have limited or no coverage in Mexico, and Medicare doesn't cover health care outside the United States, except in rare cases. Travel health insurance pays for emergency medical expenses during a trip. These expenses include the following: Ambulance service.

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