Mexican auto insurance law states that only licensed Mexican insurance companies will be recognized and accepted by Mexico’s legal system. It is also Mexican law that liability coverage be purchased. Collision is optional, but liability is a must.
What Do I Do If I Have An Accident?
If you are in an accident in Mexico, if you cannot settle directly with the other parties involved, the first call you make should be to your auto insurance Help Line. Keep your insurance card in your vehicle so that you have the number accessible. To be even more pro-active, program the Help Line number into your cell phone as well.
While you are registering your claim, the Help Line will be able to dispatch an assessor to the scene of the accident as well as make arrangements for lawyers, tow services or ambulances. All of our Mexican auto insurance companies have assessor’s all over Mexico, so one will be available no matter where you are. The best attempts possible will be made to send an English speaking assessor to the scene if you ask for one.
In the event of an accident, you must always file while you are still in Mexico for it to processed. Therefore, the first call you make should be to your auto insurance Help Line.
The Importance of the Bail Bond Element
Your Mexican auto insurance policy must cover your personal liability as well as your legal counsel and provide a “bail bond” element. The reason for this is that in Mexico, if the police are involved, there is a chance that all parties will be detained and detained until blame is assessed. In Mexico, you are not innocent until proven guilty, you are guilty until proven innocent. The bail bond, in most cases, will get you released pending investigation.
If at all possible, if you know you are taking a road trip, it’s a good idea to take a long a charged camera or a cell phone with a camera element included.
Other Documents To Keep With You While Driving
Along with your Mexican auto insurance, make sure that you also have a valid drivers license with you. You do not need to have a Mexican drivers license, but your license has to be valid.
Keep your passport with you.
Keep your tourist visa or Residente Temporal visa with you.
If you own your vehicle, or if you are leasing it, it’s a good idea to keep a copy of the title or lien holder permission letter in your vehicle as well.
Have your import sticker visible on your windshield.
When driving in Mexico, if you are involved in an accident, it is always best to try to settle directly with the person you are involved in the accident with, right there on the spot. If this is not possible, make sure you contact your insurance Help Line immediately so that you have an advocate in Mexico.
Keep your insurance agent’s number in your telephone as well so that they can help assist you should you need the additional help.