Q: Why do I need Mexican insurance?

Q: Does my U.S. insurance policy cover me in Mexico?

A: Mexico law mandates that only insurance companies which are licensed and admitted in Mexico can provide "civil liability" coverage that is recognized by the judicial system of Mexico. Although a few US insurance companies will provide collision, comprehensive on your auto while you are driving in Mexico, they cannot and do not provide Mexican liability. Therefore you must have a Mexican Insurance Policy that covers you for your liability in Mexico.

Q: How much does Mexican insurance cost?
A: There are many factors to determine the total cost of insurance. It all depends on How much you insure your vehicle(s) for, and how long you will be insured for. Most policies are written on a daily rate. It may be less money, if you are going to be traveling many days in Mexico, to go with a semi-annual (six month) or an annual policy (one year).
Cost includes a 10% Mexican government tax on the premium.

Q: How is the value of my vehicle determined?
A: Your insurance agent should be able to help you, or you can go to the web site for Kelly's Blue Book and check for yourself to determine your vehicle's value. Make sure to add those extras you want insured in case you should have a loss. Don't forget to add the vehicle being towed, if any, in the amount to be insured. We advise you not to under-insure.

Q: What's covered on a Mexican auto insurance policy?
A: Contrary to the more broad coverage's of a standard U.S. auto policy, a Mexican tourist auto policy is a named peril policy. Basically that means, "what you see is what you get". If it is not listed on the Policy Coverage then it is not a part of the coverage.
There are five (5) basic risks to a standard Mexican tourist auto policy.
1) Collision, Upset, and Glass Breakage. 2) Fire and Total Theft. 3) Property Damage Liability
4) Bodily Injury Liability. 5) Medical Expenses.
There are various methods of customizing a Mexican tourist policy. You are encouraged to clearly define your travel plans to your Mexican insurance agent so that adequate insurance is established. (1-866-387-4097)

Q: What's NOT covered on a Mexican auto insurance policy?
A: As important as it is to know what is covered, it is worthwhile to also know what is not covered. Some of the losses and/or expenses an insured might incur which are not covered include pilferage, vandalism, lodging expenses, toll calls, and loss of wages.

Q: What is Legal Aid Coverage?
A: In Mexico, a traffic accident is considered a felony, it is possible that you will be detained by the authorities, with your vehicle impounded, until they conclude their investigation. Legal Aid helps prevent this, with one phone call an attorney will come to your assistance, and negotiate your immediate release, as well as the release of the vehicle. Without it, you could be on your own racking up legal bills and huge headaches until your liability has been determined.

Q: What is Liability Only?
A: 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. An ideal limit of insurance on a Mexican Auto policy is $100,000 Combined Single Limit. Beware of split limits for example, $40/80/40. Split limits reduce the amount available for Property Damage to others.

Q: Are claims paid in dollars?
A: The Mexican insurance company settles all insurance claims in U.S. dollars from their claims offices in Mexico.

Q: If I tow a trailer, boat, or another vehicle, do I need to insure them?
A: If you are hauling another vehicle, or towing a boat or trailer the answer is no, however 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.

A: If you are towing another Car or Truck, or plan on driving it in Mexico, you will need a separate policy to cover it.

Q: Is the Mexican Insurance Company reputable?

A: We only write for the largest and most reputable Mexican insurance companies.
 

Q: Do I need a Mexico Car Permit?
A: If you plan on only driving in the state of Sonora, the answer is NO, you don't need a permit.. If you plan to drive outside the state of Sonora in mainland Mexico beyond the border areas, or plan to transport a vehicle by ferry from Baja California to mainland Mexico, then yes, you do need a permit. Permits are also not required for travel on the Baja California peninsula.

Q: What if I have a loan on my vehicle?
A: Most lenders will require that they be furnished a copy of your policy indicating that the unit is insured while it is in Mexico. 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.

Q: If I am borrowing a vehicle, will I need any special documents?
A: Yes, you should obtain a notarized affidavit of permission from the legal owner?

Q: Do I have to go to your office to get my insurance policy?
A: No, you can do most everything using the Mail, Internet, or Fax Machines. Although walk-ins are always welcome, we do recommend calling us (1-866-387-4097). We can answer your questions and figure out a solution that makes getting your policy as easy as possible.