This post summarizes one news report: ABC 10News, 19 February 2020, "San Diego man back in U.S. after days in Mexican jail". Everything about the case below is as that report states it.
What the report says happened
A San Diego man on a surf trip in Rosarito was held in a Mexican jail from a Sunday until his return to the U.S. several days later. According to friends and the local outlet Rosarito en la Noticia, as cited by 10News, Mexican authorities determined he was at fault for a collision with a passenger van on the Rosarito-Ensenada highway near the Las Rocas hotel, and four people in the van were taken to the hospital.
10News reported that he did not have valid car insurance in Mexico, so authorities demanded a cash bond, and that friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise it. The report also states: "Under Mexican law, drivers found at fault in a collision can be detained until they prove they can cover the estimated costs of the crash."
What a Mexican policy includes
Baja Bound's FAQ says a US policy is not considered proof of financial responsibility under Mexican law. When driving to Mexico, you must have a separate insurance policy provided by a reputed Mexican insurance company. Baja Bound's auto policies include legal assistance and a bail bond (Baja Bound auto page). SmartGringo links to Baja Bound, which quotes and sells the policy.
Sure, you can take risks and travel to Mexico without insurance. In such cases, you should be prepared for an unforeseen event as happened with Thomas.
Do not gamble, and have a safe trip to Mexico. Buy Mexican insurance policy today. Contact us to learn more.
Not insured yet? Quote your vehicle and dates.