When planning a trip to Mexico, it’s important to consider what kind of insurance coverage you may need. Whether you’ll be driving or participating in high-risk activities, having adequate insurance coverage can protect you from unforeseen accidents and expenses. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of insurance available for Mexico and answer some commonly asked questions.
Types of Insurance for Mexico
Mexico requires drivers to have liability insurance, but there are other types of insurance you may want to consider as well. Here are the most common types of insurance for Mexico:
Insurance Type |
Description |
|---|---|
Liability Insurance |
Required by law for drivers; covers damage to other people’s property and bodily injury to others in an accident you cause. |
Collision and Theft Insurance |
Covers damage to your own vehicle in an accident or if it’s stolen. Not required, but recommended if you’re driving a rental car or a valuable car. |
Medical Evacuation Insurance |
Covers the cost of transportation to a hospital or medical facility in case of a serious illness or injury. Recommended if you’re traveling to remote areas or participating in high-risk activities. |
Medical Expense Insurance |
Covers the cost of medical treatment in case of illness or injury. Recommended if your regular health insurance doesn’t cover you abroad. |
Liability Insurance
If you’re planning on driving in Mexico, liability insurance is required by law. This type of insurance covers damage to other people’s property and bodily injury to others in an accident you cause. Make sure you have proof of this insurance with you at all times while driving in Mexico. Here are some things to keep in mind:
What Does Liability Insurance Cover?
Liability insurance covers damage to other people’s property and bodily injury to others in an accident you cause. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle or injuries to yourself.
How Much Liability Insurance Do I Need?
The minimum amount of liability insurance required by law in Mexico is 100,000 pesos (approximately $5,000 USD) for property damage and 300,000 pesos (approximately $15,000 USD) for bodily injury. However, it’s recommended to have higher limits of liability insurance, especially if you’ll be driving in high-traffic areas or on highways.
Where Can I Buy Liability Insurance?
You can buy liability insurance at the border or online before your trip. Many rental car companies also offer liability insurance for an additional fee. Be sure to compare prices and coverage options before purchasing.
Collision and Theft Insurance
If you’re renting a car in Mexico or driving a valuable car, collision and theft insurance can protect you from expensive repairs or replacement costs. Here’s what you need to know:
What Does Collision and Theft Insurance Cover?
Collision and theft insurance covers damage to your own vehicle in an accident or if it’s stolen. It does not cover damage to other people’s property or injuries to others.
How Much Collision and Theft Insurance Do I Need?
The amount of collision and theft insurance you need depends on the value of your vehicle. Be sure to check with your rental car agency or insurer to determine the right amount of coverage.
Where Can I Buy Collision and Theft Insurance?
You can buy collision and theft insurance from your rental car agency or online before your trip. Be sure to compare prices and coverage options before purchasing.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you’re traveling to remote areas or participating in high-risk activities like hiking or scuba diving, medical evacuation insurance can provide peace of mind in case of a serious illness or injury. Here’s what you should know:
What Does Medical Evacuation Insurance Cover?
Medical evacuation insurance covers the cost of transportation to a hospital or medical facility in case of a serious illness or injury. It does not cover the cost of medical treatment itself.
How Much Medical Evacuation Insurance Do I Need?
The amount of medical evacuation insurance you need depends on the location and risk level of your activities. Be sure to check with your insurer to determine the right amount of coverage.
Where Can I Buy Medical Evacuation Insurance?
You can buy medical evacuation insurance online before your trip. Be sure to compare prices and coverage options before purchasing.
Medical Expense Insurance
If your regular health insurance doesn’t cover you abroad, medical expense insurance can provide coverage for unexpected medical expenses while in Mexico. Here’s what you should know:
What Does Medical Expense Insurance Cover?
Medical expense insurance covers the cost of medical treatment in case of illness or injury. It may also cover emergency dental treatment and prescription drugs.
How Much Medical Expense Insurance Do I Need?
The amount of medical expense insurance you need depends on your individual needs and medical history. Be sure to check with your insurer to determine the right amount of coverage.
Where Can I Buy Medical Expense Insurance?
You can buy medical expense insurance online before your trip. Be sure to compare prices and coverage options before purchasing.
FAQ
Is it Safe to Drive in Mexico?
Driving in Mexico can be safe if you follow the rules of the road and take precautions like avoiding driving at night and staying on main highways. However, road conditions and driving culture may be different than what you’re used to, so it’s important to be aware and alert at all times.
Do I Need a Special License to Drive in Mexico?
Most U.S. and Canadian driver’s licenses are recognized in Mexico, but it’s a good idea to check with your insurer and the Mexican embassy or consulate to be sure. If you’re driving a rental car, the rental agency may require an international driver’s license.
What Should I Do If I’m in a Car Accident in Mexico?
If you’re in a car accident in Mexico, the first thing you should do is make sure everyone is okay and call the police. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and take photos of the damage and the accident scene. Be sure to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible.
What If I Get Sick or Injured While in Mexico?
If you get sick or injured while in Mexico, seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you have medical expense insurance or travel insurance that includes medical coverage, contact your insurer for instructions on how to file a claim. If you need emergency medical evacuation, contact your insurer or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
What Should I Do If My Passport or Money is Stolen?
If your passport or money is stolen while in Mexico, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport and other important documents in a safe place, and don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.
What Should I Pack for a Trip to Mexico?
When packing for a trip to Mexico, be sure to include:
- Valid passport and other important documents
- Copies of important documents
- Money and credit cards
- Insurance documents and contact information
- Appropriate clothing for the climate and activities
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Medications and first aid kit
- Travel guide and maps
Conclusion
Having adequate insurance coverage is an important part of planning for a trip to Mexico. From liability insurance to medical evacuation insurance, there are a variety of options to choose from depending on your needs and activities. By being prepared and informed, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.