Q: Why do I need Mexican insurance?
A: Mexican law requires that anyone involved in a car
accident in Mexico must have the means to cover damages or
injuries that they may be responsible for. In Mexico, this means
having either cash or a Mexican insurance policy. Unlike in the
United States, Mexico does not have a requirement for compulsory
automobile insurance. It's important to note that U.S. insurance
policies may not be recognized by the Mexican government, so
it's essential to have a Mexican insurance policy that covers
your liability in Mexico.
Q: Do I need a Mexico Car Permit?
A: A permit is required if you plan to drive outside the state of
Sonora in mainland Mexico beyond the border areas, or if you
plan to transport a vehicle by ferry from Baja California to
mainland Mexico. Permits are not required for travel in the
state of Sonora or on the Baja California peninsula.
Q: Does my U.S. insurance policy cover me in Mexico?
A: U.S. insurance policies may cover physical damage to your
vehicle, but they may not be recognized by the Mexican
government as valid coverage. It's important to have a Mexican
insurance policy that covers your liability in Mexico.
Q: How is the value of my vehicle determined?
A: You can determine the value of your vehicle by consulting with your insurance agent or using a resource like Kelly's Blue Book. Make sure to include any additional items you want insured, such as a trailer or boat, in the insured amount. It's important not to under-insure your vehicle |
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Q: What if I have a loan on my vehicle?
A: Most lenders will require a copy of your policy showing that your vehicle is insured while it is in Mexico. You should include the "lien holder" on your policy. Make sure to allow enough time before your trip to Mexico to handle all necessary paperwork.
Q: If I tow a trailer, boat, or another vehicle, do I need to
insure them?
A: You should insure any vehicles or items being towed with your vehicle. If you plan on driving the towed vehicle in Mexico, you will need a separate policy to cover it for driving, not just while it is in tow. Failing to insure a towed vehicle could potentially void the insurance on your towing vehicle in the event of an accident or loss.
Q: If I am borrowing a vehicle, will I need any special
documents?
A: Yes, you should obtain a notarized affidavit of permission from the legal owner of the vehicle before driving it in Mexico.
Q: What is Liability Only?
A: Liability Only coverage is the minimum insurance required by Mexican law. It includes property damage caused by your vehicle, legal liability for injuries or deaths of people not in your vehicle, and medical expenses for you or other people in your vehicle.
Q: What is Legal Aid Coverage?
A: Legal Aid coverage helps to protect you in the event of a traffic accident in Mexico, which is considered a felony. In the event of an accident, it's possible that you could be detained by authorities and have your vehicle impounded until the investigation is complete. With Legal Aid coverage, you can make a single phone call to an attorney who will come to your assistance and negotiate your immediate release, as well as the release of your vehicle.
Q: What's covered on a Mexican auto insurance policy?
A: Mexican tourist auto policies are named peril policies, meaning that they only cover specifically listed risks. The five basic risks covered by a standard Mexican tourist auto policy are:
1. Collision, Upset, and Glass Breakage
2. Fire and Total Theft
3. Property Damage Liability
4. Bodily Injury Liability
5. Medical Expenses
You can customize your policy to fit your specific travel needs by clearly outlining your plans with your insurance agent.Q:
What is not covered on a Mexican auto insurance policy?
Q: What's NOT covered on a Mexican auto insurance policy?
A: As important as it is to know what is covered, it is worthwhile
to also know what is NOT covered. Some of the losses and/or
expenses an insured might incur which are not covered include
pilferage, vandalism, lodging expenses, toll calls, and loss of
wages.
Q: Are claims paid in dollars?
A: Yes, all insurance claims made under a Mexican policy are settled in U.S. dollars by the Mexican insurance company from its claims offices in Mexico.
Q: Can I cancel my policy?
A: Yes, you can, as long as the policy is not in effect. You
will receive the premium amount minus a facilitation fee.
Q: How much does Mexican insurance cost?
A: The cost of Mexican insurance depends on several factors, including the amount of coverage you need and the length of time you will be insured. Most policies are based on a daily rate, but you may be able to save money by purchasing a six-month or annual policy if you will be spending an extended period of time in Mexico or plan to return multiple times. There is also a 10% Mexican government tax applied to the premium.
Q: Do I have to go to your office to get my insurance policy?
A: No, you can easily purchase your insurance policy online from the comfort of your own home. Simply click on
any of the banners on this page. We only represent the most reputable and innovative insurance companies in Mexico. By purchasing your policy online, you can save time and money compared to stopping at the border to purchase insurance.