Driving in Mexico

Shop around for the best deal. You might find it a good idea to get a recommendation from a friend or chose larger, more reputable companies if you are getting full cover. Driving without insurance is extremely risky and you are likely to be heavily penalised if caught.

Documents and Mexican police

When driving in Mexico always make sure that you have your licence, passport or other proof of identification, proof of insurance and vehicle registration with you at all times. The Mexican government are severely clamping down on Mexican police officers taking bribes from drivers who have been pulled over for one reason or another. While some police officers in Mexico may be looking to extract a bribe from you, it is advisable to be polite, stay calm and present the documents they are asking for.

Petrol stations in Mexico

Petrol stations in Mexico are clearly recognisable by their green and white PEMEX signs. The price of petrol is roughly the same throughout the whole of Mexico, with slight variations nearer to the borders. Credit cards are rarely accepted at Mexican petrol stations, so carry some cash with you.

Safety tips for drivers

Some people in Mexico drive carelessly, don’t always use indicators and may change direction or speed without warning. Do not put yourself at risk by relying on the skills of other motorists. Be vigilant, get in the correct lane as early as possible and try to stay composed. Restrict to driving in daylight hours if possible. Drink driving is unfortunately relatively common, so this does make the night more hazardous.

Safety is the most important part of driving a car anywhere in the world. In Mexico there are a few steps you should take to keep safe when driving in Mexico. The first thing you should do when you get into your car is to lock the door from the inside. Do not stop for large objects or rocks placed in the middle of the road. Quite often they are deliberately put there in order to make cars stop, so slowly drive around them if it is safe to do so. It is also advisable to keep your windows up where possible during your journey and don’t leave possessions in a car in view. Carjacking does happen, so be aware of your surroundings and ready to react if possible.

Road accidents

In the event of an accident Mexican police will often hold both parties until responsibility has been established. This has the unfortunate side-effect that many people involved in accidents just drive away immediately (causes can include having no insurance, not wanting to tangle with the Police or being intoxicated). It is worth asking your Mexican car insurance or car rental company about their breakdown coverage, which usually provides a decent and prompt service. Alternatively there are ‘Green Angels’ patrolling most of the major parts of Mexico who are on hand to respond to road accidents.

When it comes to more serious road accidents where somebody is injured or even killed, Mexican law states that those involved in the accident are guilty until proven innocent. This does mean you can be taken to prison. All of this means that you should consider driving more carefully than usual, take great care and adopt defensive driving techniques.

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