1/18/08

With temperatures dipping into the 20s and 30s in much of the country, a long weekend in sunny, warm Mexico probably seems extremely attractive. If you plan to drive to or in Mexico, be aware that your own auto insurance doesn't help you at all once you cross the border. Fortunately, however, you can buy Mexican auto insurance even before you leave the U. S., and it's generally pretty affordable.

Mexican law doesn't actually require drivers to carry auto insurance, but in case of an accident - even a minor fender bender - you have to be able to prove financial responsibility or you can be detained until the authorities complete their investigation. Insurance is generally preferable to spending time in a Mexican jail.

You can buy Mexican auto insurance all along the border, from brokers who sell policies that can be for specific terms, like a one-day walk-in visit, or even via drive-through. At a minimum, you will need civil liability insurance, which protects you if your car causes injury or death to anyone other than your passengers, or damages property, but full coverage is a better option, since it provides comprehensive protection. Many other plans are also available, and pricing is based on the type of vehicle and the level of coverage.

In order to obtain Mexican auto insurance, you'll need to provide:

• The current registration for the car or truck you're insuring (photocopy acceptable)
• A notarized letter of authorization from the registered owner of the car (if it's borrowed), or from your lease company or lender (if the car is leased or financed) OR a rental agreement proving you have permission to cross the border (if the car is rented).

If an accident happens, you should:

• Never accept any responsibility or make arrangements with other parties.
• Stay on-scene until the authorities arrive and tell you that you can leave
• Report all claims to your insurer before you return to the United States. Your policy will come with a list of contact numbers.

De Rose, and others like him, are especially concerned that older drivers won't bother with online courses, and also feels that the give-and-take of a live classroom is better at instilling knowledge and safe driving techniques.

Ms. Chavez points out, however, that the New Mexico Department of Transportation Traffic Safety Bureau website "… lists the current approved options for seniors to take a defensive driving course."

If you're in mainland Mexico (beyond the border towns, and outside Baja California) and your car is totaled or stolen, it's also important to either cancel your vehicle permit, or surrender it to the authorities before you return to the United States.

Driving in Mexico can be challenging, but knowing that you are insured while there will lend reassurance, as well as saving you time and money in the long run.