There’s a long list of reasons to drive to Mexico - vacation, dentistry, and medical are among the most popular. Millions of people from the U.S. cross the border each year to take advantage of the beautiful Baja California climate, medical and dental savings in Tijuana, and many other towns and villages near the border. It’s easy to understand why so many people travel to Mexico, some may only visit once, although others may visit regularly! What you may or may not be familiar with is that driving in Mexico requires auto insurance from a Mexico-based insurance company. Perhaps you’ve already set off on your road trip only to discover along the way that you need temporary Mexican car insurance. You’re probably wondering if you can buy Mexican car insurance at the border. The short answer is, yes. But, what are the pros and cons of purchasing a policy at the border?
Should You Buy Car Insurance at the Border?
In an ideal situation, you would purchase your auto insurance policy ahead of time. Why? Buying your car insurance at the border will cost more than if you had purchased your policy beforehand. You can save up to 50 percent of what you may be charged at the border because agents know you will not want to spend a lot of time researching insurance once you’re already at the border and ready to get on your way.
Buying car insurance ahead of time allows you to think about the options. How much coverage will you need? Do you want to add roadside assistance to your policy? You will be able to give yourself plenty of time to talk to the agent, as well as other travelers that have already been in the same situation that you’re in. You can check with other companies and shop around. In short, while it is great that the option is there to buy your auto policy at the border, if at all possible, do your homework ahead of time and cross the border with security.
Is it Necessary to Purchase Auto Insurance to Drive in Mexico?
Although some U.S. insurance policies offer limited coverage near the border in Mexico, under no circumstances will the Mexican authorities recognize U.S.-based policies. Therefore, you will need an auto insurance policy from a Mexico-based company to drive in Mexico, especially if you are involved in an accident. If you are involved in an accident and do not have Mexican car insurance, you could end up paying a large fine or even land in jail with your car impounded.
How Do I Purchase Mexican Auto Insurance?
Fortunately, buying a policy is easy and quick as many Mexico-based agencies have online forms and payment options available. You’ll need to provide simple, basic information to the agent, such as your driver’s license number, make and model of the vehicle, car registration, and other easily accessible information. Some policies may require information about the lienholder and other potential drivers. Most companies offer several options for coverage, from the base minimum required by Mexican law to full coverage with roadside and legal assistance.
There’s a world of fun and adventure waiting in Mexico, don’t let an unexpected car accident ruin it because you didn’t purchase car insurance from a Mexico-based company. If possible, purchase it ahead of time, but know that the option is there if you need to buy it at the border. It’s always good to have options, right? Now, time to hit the road!
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