Why do I need to buy a liability policy when traveling to Mexico?
If you plan to drive your car across the border into Mexico, you will need to purchase Mexico auto insurance. This is because your U.S. auto insurance policy is not valid in Mexico, and Mexican law requires drivers to carry liability insurance from a Mexican insurance company.
In the event of an accident, Mexican authorities will expect you to be able to provide proof of insurance. If you are involved in an accident and do not have valid Mexican auto insurance, you may be held financially responsible for any damages or injuries you cause, and you may also be detained until you can prove your ability to pay.
Therefore, it is important to purchase Mexico auto insurance before you cross the border, to ensure that you are compliant with Mexican law and protected in the event of an accident.
Mexican car insurance coverages
If you are planning to drive to Mexico for vacations, shopping, business, or even a medical consultation, it is very important to obtain coverage from a Mexican insurance carrier.
BorderSolutions offers these plans:
BorderSolutions offers a vehicle insurance policy that allows you to drive in Mexico, and helps you financially protect yourself and your vehicle ; at the same time, you are complying to a Mexican legal requirement. BorderSolutions lets you quote, compare, and choose from 3 different plans: basic, full coverage, and platinum full coverage. These plans are available through Chubb and Zurich.
Coverage
Basic
Full Coverage
Premium Full Coverage
Collision
Actual Cash Value, with a maximum $10,500
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Total Theft
Actual Cash Value, with a maximum $10,500
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Civil Liability for material damage to third-party property and third-party bodily injury, excluding occupants of the insured vehicle
$200,000
$300,000
$500,000
Medical Expense for Occupants
$20,000
$25,000
$50,000
Legal Defense
Roadside Assistance
Medical and Travel Assistance
Chubb plan only
Chubb plan only
Vandalism
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Partial Theft
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Extension of Civil Liability
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U.S. Labor Rate
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Medical Evacuation
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Physical Damage Extension
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Zurich plan only
Uninsured Motorist
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Zurich plan only
Coverage
Collision
Actual Cash Value, with a maximum $10,500
Basic
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Full Coverage
Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Total Theft
Actual Cash Value, with a maximum $10,500
Basic
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Full Coverage
Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Civil Liability for material damage to third-party property and third-party bodily injury, excluding occupants of the insured vehicle
Basic
$200,000
Full Coverage
$300,000
Premium Full Coverage
$500,000
Coverage
Medical Expense for Occupants
Basic
$20,000
Full Coverage
$25,000
Premium Full Coverage
$50,000
Coverage
Legal Defense
Basic
Full Coverage
Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Roadside Assistance
Basic
Full Coverage
Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Medical and Travel Assistance
Basic
Chubb plan only
Full Coverage
Chubb plan only
Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Vandalism
Basic
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Full Coverage
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Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Partial Theft
Basic
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Full Coverage
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Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Extension of Civil Liability
Basic
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Full Coverage
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Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
U.S. Labor Rate
Basic
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Full Coverage
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Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Medical Evacuation
Basic
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Full Coverage
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Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Physical Damage Extension
Basic
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Full Coverage
Zurich plan only
Premium Full Coverage
Coverage
Uninsured Motorist
Basic
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Full Coverage
Zurich plan only
Premium Full Coverage
How does Car Insurance for Mexico work?
Mexican liability Insurance is specifically designed for driving in Mexico and follows Mexican law. On the other hand, Mexican authorities do not recognize the liability coverage on U.S., or any other non-Mexican Automobile liability policies. Only a Mexican Automobile liability policy is acceptable evidence of financial responsibility. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that Mexican insurance be purchased prior to entering that country. Some California issued policies do extend limited physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage on vehicles for a limited distance while operating in Mexico.
What do I need to get a policy to travel to Mexico?
Once you complete your quote, you can have your vehicle insured in just minutes. You will need your driver’s license information, your vehicle information (available on your vehicle registration), your lienholder information if the vehicle is financed or leased, and your credit or debit card information.
Is auto insurance required to go to Mexico?
Yes, it is mandatory to have Mexican Auto Insurance if you plan on driving a vehicle in Mexico. Mexican law requires all drivers to have liability coverage in case of an accident.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mexico Car Insurance
What is liability coverage in Mexico Auto insurance?
Liability coverage is the most important type of coverage in Mexico Auto Insurance. It helps cover the cost of damage or injury that you may cause to others while driving in Mexico. This type of coverage is required by law in Mexico.
What types of coverage are available for Mexico auto insurance?
There are several types of coverages, including liability coverage, theft and vandalism coverage, collision coverage, and more. You can choose the coverage that best fits your needs and budget. BorderSolutions offers 3 different packages: Liability, Full Coverage and Platinum Full Coverage
Can I buy Mexican auto insurance online?
Yes, you can buy Mexican Auto Insurance online from a reputable provider like BorderSolutions. The process is quick, easy, and convenient, allowing you to get the coverage you need before you start your journey in Mexico.
How is the value of the vehicle determined?
Your local car dealer or your insurance agent should be able to help you determine your vehicle's value. The Kelley Blue Book of used cars values may also be used as a guide. Be sure to add those extras you want insured should you have a loss. Remember, our trailers and cars are always worth more to us owners than they might be to someone else. Be cautious not to under-insure.
What if I have a loan on my vehicle?
If you have a loan on your vehicle or trailer, most lenders will require that they be furnished a copy of your policy indicating that the car is insured while it is in Mexican territory. Upon request, we will supply a "lien holder" copy of the policy naming your bank or financial institution as lender. Always make sure you allow enough time before your trip into Mexico to allow for the handling of paperwork.
If I tow a trailer, boat, or another vehicle, do I need to insure them?
No, but it must be listed on the policy with the towing vehicle, otherwise the towing vehicle's insurance could be voided in the event of an accident or loss.
If I am borrowing a vehicle, will I need any special documents?
Yes, you should obtain a notarized affidavit or permission from the legal owner.
What is liability only?
The liability only policy provides the minimum vehicle insurance required by the Mexican government. Included in this coverage is property damage caused by your vehicle, legal liability for injuries or death of persons not in your vehicle and medical expenses for you or other persons in your vehicle.
What is legal aid coverage?
In Mexico, a traffic accident is considered a felony, it is possible that the authorities will detain you with your vehicle impounded, until they conclude their investigation. Legal Aid can help with this, with one phone call an attorney can come to your assistance and negotiate for your immediate release as well as the release of the vehicle.
What are some situations that are not covered?
Generally, it does not cover:
- Vehicles with Mexican plates (or rental vehicles from Mexico).
- Drivers with Mexican driver licenses.
- Full coverage on vehicles over 15 years old.
- Vehicles while involved in a race or any kind of competition.
- Vehicles that are off-roading.
- Commercial use.
Is it possible to extend my coverage if I’m going to be driving in Mexico for a longer period of time?
Yes, you can easily extend your coverage for a longer period of time issuing a new policy. If you need it, simply contact your and they can assist you issuing a new Policy.
Is Mexican auto insurance required for rental cars in Mexico?
Yes, it is required to have Mexican Auto Insurance when driving a rental car in Mexico. Most rental car companies will offer Mexican Insurance as an optional purchase, but it's important to confirm that you have adequate coverage before starting your trip. Unfortunately, BorderSolutions does not offer coverage for rental cars in Mexico.
Does Mexican auto insurance cover medical expenses in case of an accident?
Yes, many Mexican Auto Insurance policies include medical expense coverage for you and your passengers in case of an accident. This coverage can help cover the cost of medical treatment, hospitalization, and more.
What happens if I get into an accident in Mexico and I don’t have Mexican auto insurance?
If you get into an accident in Mexico without Mexican Auto Insurance, please be aware that there is potential for serious legal and financial consequences. You could be arrested and detained until the matter is resolved, and you could also be responsible for paying any damages out of pocket.
Can I purchase Mexican auto insurance while I’m already in Mexico?
Yes, you can purchase Mexican Auto Insurance while you're already in Mexico. However, consider purchasing your insurance before starting your trip to ensure that you have coverage in case of an emergency or other unforeseen circumstances.
Is Mexican auto insurance valid in all states in Mexico?
Yes, the Mexican Auto Insurance offered by BorderSolutions is valid in all states of Mexico. Whether you're driving in Baja California, Yucatan, or any other state, you'll have coverage under your Mexican insurance policy. However, BorderSolutions’ monthly payments policies are considered limited Territory, which will only cover the following states of Mexico: Baja California (Norte), Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas.