Mexico Insurance Policy Issues on the Road in Mexico

You don’t need to be nervous about driving in Mexico. However, getting a Mexico insurance policy is essential, considering some unusual driving issues you could face during your travels. Whether you will spend most of your time in a city or cross vast expanses of the desert on rural highways, you can encounter some activities and road features that may confuse or be startling. However, a little bit of advance notice is helpful so that you can deal with such issues calmly and poised.

Topes speed bump sign at Caribbean Street, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Road Design

City roads can be a little narrower than what you may be used to at home. This may not be stressful during slow traffic times, but narrow lanes can be harrowing if you are in rush hour traffic. Similarly, Mexican highways can become narrower as you enter remote areas. South of El Rosario, for example, the two-lane road is relatively narrow. Exercise caution in these areas to avoid unexpected collisions with other motorists. Remember that your Mexico insurance policy includes roadside assistance to help with problems you may experience in such areas.

Traffic Management

A couple of challenging features used in larger cities include roundabouts and speed bumps. You may be accustomed to using small dots used to alert you to coming stops or other issues. However, in Mexico, speed bumps in significant thoroughfares can be more extensive than speed bumps you would typically find in parking lots, making it possible to sustain severe vehicle damage if you don’t realize the bump is coming.

Watch for signs that indicate the presence of topes, the Spanish word for hills or bumps. Roundabouts can be very stressful, and it’s essential to stay with the flow of traffic to avoid being rear-ended. Unfortunately, these are some of the most common spots for accidents that could lead to claims against your Mexican car insurance.

Guard Rails and Mexico insurance policy Issues

You need to be aware that safety standards may not be quite what you expect, and guard rails may be less sturdy than what you see at home. At times, guard rails may even be missing from areas where they seem to be needed. Mexican Highway 1, as an example, has some sketchy spots in Baja Norte. The scenery is breathtaking, but the drop-offs can be startling. Watch for slowing traffic ahead on such routes because accidents can happen. Be prepared to wait if a semi or bus should hang over an edge. Restrict your driving to times when visibility is at its optimum.