If you are driving in Mexico and have an accident, you cannot just exchange information and be on your way. Follow these instructions in the event you have an accident (and see our post on why a Mexican policy matters after a crash).
What to do:
- Make sure everyone is okay. Mexico's emergency number is 911.
- Call the number on your Mexican auto insurance policy before you move the vehicle or agree to anything. Baja Bound's claims page lists the HDI and Chubb claim numbers. (The first page of your policy should have instructions on what to do if you have an accident. Remember, Baja Bound's FAQ says insurance from the US or Canada is not considered proof of financial responsibility under Mexican law, so you must have a Mexican policy.)
- The insurance company will send an adjuster immediately who will assess the damage and file any paperwork required while they are on-site.
- If your car is not driveable, the adjuster will also call a tow truck and arrange to have it taken to the nearest repair shop. (Note: towing is sometimes an option on your policy so check the details; Baja Bound's auto page lists roadside assistance and towing. On a federal highway, the Ángeles Verdes roadside service is on 078.)
- If the accident involved serious injuries and someone needs medical attention, tell the agent when you call so emergency services can be sent to the scene.
- If the police are involved, use the legal assistance on your policy: Baja Bound's auto policies include legal assistance and a bail bond, available 24/7 (Baja Bound). You can also contact your consulate to let them know what happened; for a serious injury or arrest of a US citizen, the US Embassy's emergency line is 55 2579 2000 from Mexico (embassy contact page).
What not to do:
- Leave the scene – call your Mexican auto insurance company and have them help
- Risk it and not get insurance – this can not only wind up with you in jail, but you will have to pay for damages out of your pocket.
- File the claim once you get back across the border – you must be in Mexico when you file your claim or the insurance company may not honor the claim.
- Sign a Spanish-language document you can't read.
Driving down this month? See what your cover costs at Baja Bound.