Car Travel Tips: Driving in Mexico

By: Levi Quinn
Submitted: 2008-10-13 14:08:14
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It is a real luxury to be able to drive your vehicle almost anywhere that you would like to go. Driving to Mexico is something that many Americans are interested in doing instead of booking an expensive airline flight. But before you drive off to another place outside your own country or state, take care to get important information regarding what driving is like there. Rules and regulations may be different so having the facts up front can save you plenty of heartache and woe in the event that something unexpected happens.

Call your insurance company and ask them if you are covered in Mexico. Quite often you will be required to take out separate insurance for the time you will be in Mexico with your car. This is because Mexico laws state that accident parties are all guilty until proven innocent. That can take a lot of time, so be sure to cover all bases in terms of protection and collision coverage for your car.

Keep in mind that road maintenance standards are not as high in Mexico as they are in America. There are many more potholes and areas of really rough terrain. If you drive something with 4X4 or a large vehicle that is sturdy, this may not worry you. However, those with small or very expensive vehicles may want to think about leaving them at home.

It’s important not to stop for any hitch hikers in Mexico. We have all heard stories of people being robbed or attacked. Though this is not guaranteed, it is much more likely to occur if you stop for random strangers on the road. There are times when trying to be nice will only come back to haunt you. Mexico is a place where it’s best to stay alert and cautious at all times.

Watch out for livestock on the roads. Farm animals in Mexico are not stored rurally like they are in the U.S. Many of them are free to wander which often makes them the target of some poor, unfortunate driver. A cow can be quite deadly to hit, especially in a smaller vehicle. Pay close attention at all times to animals on the road or in the ditch nearby.

Do not attempt to drive around Mexico without a road map. Unless you are a regular visitor that knows your way around, this would be a big mistake. It is not always safe to stop and ask for directions. Get yourself a good map that has main roads and towns clearly indicated. Of course, a GPS unit wouldn’t hurt either.

Bring all necessary paperwork regarding your car and yourself. Proof of your identity may be required by local police. It’s absolutely necessary to have proof that your car is legal and that you are who you say you are. You should never travel anywhere without bringing all of your identification and necessary papers with you. This can land you in serious hot water if something were to happen, like an accident of some kind. The key to effective travel in any place away from home is proper preparation.

Article source: Expert Articles