Driving in Mexico for the first time can be pretty daunting if you aren’t familiar with how things work. Roads can be confusing in bigger cities and it’s easy to take the wrong turn or not get off on the right round-about exit. Here are some tips for driving in Mexico.
Watch for Stop Signs, and Stop
You will see other drivers roll through stop signs. Don't copy them: come to a full stop, because police can pull you over. On some roads it's easy to miss the stop sign because it's hidden or camouflaged by other signs. If you aren’t familiar with the road you are on, better to take it slow and easy.
Your Insurance is No Good Here
If you are driving your own car across the border, keep in mind your U.S. or Canadian insurance is not valid in Mexico. You need to have Mexican auto insurance, which federal law requires on federal roads and bridges (Ley de Caminos, Puentes y Autotransporte Federal, art. 63 Bis). Temporary policies can be purchased in minutes online and include options of liability-only to full coverage; Baja Bound's quote form prices a policy for the days you select, from one day to annual, and the policy lists liability, physical damage and medical payments (price table).
Mind the Speed Limits
Be aware of the posted speed limit and don’t get too out of hand if you have a lead foot. Read what your policy says about breaking the law before you rely on a claim.
It’s a Give and Take Relationship
Ultimately, driving in Mexico is a give and take relationship. Intersections in a city you don’t know can be confusing. The best thing to do is just ease into the intersection, watch what the other drivers are doing, and then take your turn.
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