When it comes to the top ten hot spots for travelers, Mexico ranks high. This is primarily because of all the mountain escapes, tropical getaways, shopping outlets, and endless sporting activities. However, despite all of this - Mexico is also known to produce just the right amount of situations that can easily lead to unforeseen accidents.
According to the United States Department of State, the lead U.S. foreign affairs agency, many American visitors assume the standards of security and safety are the same In Mexico as they are in the U.S. These presumptions have lead not only to serious injuries, but even deaths.
Because of differences in Mexican law, situations are made even more dire because needed care after an auto accident or medical emergency can become slowed down by bureaucracy and other entanglements. Therefore, the US State Department urges all citizens to take responsibly for their own safety. American and Canadian tourists should also make sure that they have comprehensive auto and medical insurance that they need.
Driving and Mexico Laws: Mexico's law is based on Napoleonic Code where guilt is assumed over innocence. As a result, all drivers must have a Mexican insurance policy from a company authorized to do business in Mexico to cover damages or injuries.
U.S liability insurance is simply not valid in Mexico. This includes most of the major U.S. collision and comprehensive coverage plans.
In addition to the required Mexico auto insurance, motorists should also purchase a plan that covers legal aid and bond expenses.
In Mexico, it is considered a felony to have a traffic accident. While the police are investigating who caused the accident, your vehicle may be impounded and you will be detained by Mexican authorities.
Additionally, the US Department of State advises travelers in the United States that they could also be forced to stay in the country, even if they require "life-saving medical attention."
Medical Assistance Services
Mexico has a free national health care system; however, foreigners are not entitled to this service. Tourists can only receive medical treatment and medications from private clinics and hospitals. We strongly suggest that you check with your medical insurance company to confirm whether their policy applies in Mexico and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation, because most do not.
The majority of medical assistance plans only take care of certain portions of the cost as it applies to location or the source of injury. As for people with Medicare, the fees required at a hospital or another medical care facility beyond the U.S. are ineligible.
Therefore, it's important to attempt to fill in the gaps that your Mexico auto or US or Canadian medical insurance have. Besides comprehensive Mexican auto insurance, travelers should add an emergency medical assistance option, since almost all health plans exclude medical evacuation if it occurrs in a foreign country, such as Mexico.
Choosing A Plan: The most convenient and affordable method of locating Mexican auto insurance is on the Internet. When choosing a plan, it is recommended to seek out an option that provides the following:
Third-Party auto liability coverage with adequate Split or CSL Limits. Roadside assistance Bail bond provision and legal assistance Physical damage and total theft of vehicle coverage Medical Repatriation (Air & Land) and travel assistance Medical expenses for occupants and driver Rental Car, Repair in US or Mexico and Vandalism
Make sure the plan covers you during your entire stay. Most plans have daily, six month, and annual policies. After 20-25 days it may be more economical to purchase a 6 month or annual policy.
Director Linden Gray is an insurance veteran with over 29 years of retail & direct insurance experience. Mr. Gray has been featured in many publications including RV Magazine, PE.com, Google, Yahoo, Digg & Buzzle. For More Information: mexican auto insurance. You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.
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