What should I look for in a vehicle insurance policy for taking my US vehicle into Mexico?
I have been told that driving my private vehicle from California into Mexico is no big deal EXCEPT that I must have Mexican insurance. I am looking for specific recommendations about what to look for when buying the insurance - are all policies basically the same, is there an official agency that needs to underwrite the policies, are there exemptions to be wary of, etc etc. If you know of approximate cost of the policies, please post that as well.
Best Answer
You can buy a policy online through AAA. See this link. It does not appear that you have to be an AAA member to buy a policy. The cost depends on your car, length of your trip, what limits you want, etc; it should be easy to see a quote.
I haven't done this myself, and I also can't speak to how competitive the price is, but I have had my regular auto policy through AAA for several years and have found them to have good service and be very competitively priced.
You might also ask your own auto insurance company. If they don't write Mexico policies themselves, they may be able to recommend another company.
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What kind of car insurance do I need in Mexico?
Liability car insurance in Mexico You are required by Mexican law to have liability insurance. If you cause a car accident, this covers bodily injuries and property damage to others. You can typically choose a policy limit (up to a certain amount).Does my US car insurance cover me in Mexico?
Does Your Car Insurance Cover You In Mexico? Most typical U.S. auto insurance policies will not cover Mexico. So, if you're heading south of the border, you'll need additional coverage for the family wagon. GEICO, for example, has partners that offer Mexico-specific policies for cars, RVs and motorcycles.Do I need special car insurance for Mexico?
You'll need a special Mexican auto insurance policy to legally drive in Mexico, which can be acquired through an insurance agent. If you're planning to drive a rental car in Mexico, you may be able to purchase the insurance coverage directly through the rental agency, according to the Department of State.Can you drive an American car in Mexico?
Yes, if you have a U.S. or Canadian driver's license, you will be permitted to drive in Mexico. You must keep your driver's license with you at all times while driving in Mexico.Should you take your car to Mexico?
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Answer 2
Prices are regulated by the Mexican Governments, (Mostly federal laws), so it is best to compare services, as more or less service is the same price. Instant Mexico Auto Insurance has off street parking, assistance with claims in their office - not just giving you the carrier's phone number, drive through, lobby with clean restrooms.
There are things that can be added to policies, coverage amounts can be increased, more drivers, etc.
The underwriters must be an Mexican carrier who fall under Mexican laws. US companies do not fall under Mexican laws so the Government of Mexico has little control over them. A US company may fix your car but the problem is damages to other people.
In Mexico a car accident, liability, falls under the criminal law; You must show proof of ability to pay any liability, (A Mexican Insurance policy instantly shows that), or you could be thrown in jail until you post a bond which would cover the liability. By having a company that helps with claims, is basically a service specifically to help you; not a required service and not one you pay more for.
There was a case, I think in the state of Sonora, where the court ordered the carrier to pay more than the min liability required. I am guessing they had to pay 80,000 instead of 50,000 to a third party. Some agents are now selling policies of 300,000 because of that 3 year court case. Some carriers are in the process of rethinking the min they sell. But, the driver of the vehicle only needs to show the police the insurance coverage paper from a Mexican carrier.
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