jwash
TUG Member
Can anyone tell me of the safety for traveling from Arizona into Mexico? We have a week at the Mayan Palace in Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point) and are concerned with safety driving there.
Thank you.
Thank you.
-
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Driving into Mexico safety
- Thread starter jwash
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Karen G
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See post #14 in this thread for someone who made that drive recently.
Buy Mexican insurance. The larger insurance sales offices will have a flyer with current crossing instructions. Read it. The signs at Nogales are pretty clear to the port of entry. I can't remember if your passport check or vehicle license check is first, but whichever it is it is. You will get a holographic sticker for the windshield. DO NOT DAMAGE IT! Don't drive at night. Be aware of HUMONGOUS, POTENTIALLY RUINOUS humps at each end of towns and villages called 'Topes' (there are signs) watch for them!
The roads are generally 2 lanes. The traffic drives too fast. Road shoulders are almost non-existent. All gasoline is Pemex.
Don't get in too much of a hurry. Have fun.
Jim Ricks
The roads are generally 2 lanes. The traffic drives too fast. Road shoulders are almost non-existent. All gasoline is Pemex.
Don't get in too much of a hurry. Have fun.
Jim Ricks
Jimster
TUG Member
Driving
You are braver than I am. I have driven across the border there before but it is not a good idea. Advice already given is accurate. Its not just the traffic- in case you missed the news there is a drug war going on close to the border. I have a friend whose brother was kidnapped and beheaded. What do you have against flying? Welcome to tug.
You are braver than I am. I have driven across the border there before but it is not a good idea. Advice already given is accurate. Its not just the traffic- in case you missed the news there is a drug war going on close to the border. I have a friend whose brother was kidnapped and beheaded. What do you have against flying? Welcome to tug.
Karen G
Moderator
- Joined
- Aug 17, 2004
- Messages
- 9,470
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How horrible! Was the person who was murdered involved with the drug cartel or an innocent bystander?
Debbie0329
TUG Member
There are a couple of bus or van companies that do this trip from Tucson - I think I would look into that...we had a trip cancelled that was going to San Carlos recently because people aren't travelling to Mexico...
Deb
Deb
Jimster
TUG Member
reply
The person i spoke of in the above post was the brother of a mexican-american living near Mexico City. He drove his truck across the border back from the USA and never made it home. He was apparently stopped, had his truck stolen and was taken away. He was later found beheaded in a mass grave with several other apparent victims of the same type of crime. The Mexican officials have open case files on thousands of kidnap victims. So in answer to your question- Yes, he was an innocent victim. After doing some research for my friend, I found this was not uncommon. Maybe that's why the US State Department has issued a warning on the border towns in Mexico. I have driven in Nogales myself but would never do it again. It is not the easiest town to navigate (I hope you are driving a 4 wheel drive vehicle). I honestly don't know why anyone would want to be driving in Mexico these days. Now when I go to Mexico I generally walk across and park in the USA. In traveling to Europe, Asia and other parts of North America I find that Americans have this obvious obsession with driving cars. Now there are some places it is ok, but when possible that is my last option not my first. For example, you don't really need a car in most of Europe. They have a highly efficient train system. I just got back from Asia for a month and didn't need to rent a car for the entire time and i traveled a great deal when i was there. The one reason people often cite is that it costs to much if you don't have a car. Yeah right! Let's see, you pay to rent the car-of course you can save this if you take your own car but then have to add in the fact that you might see your car dismantled at the border, you pay for gas, you pay for insurance (and you will pay for Mexican insurance no work arounds here), you pay for damage done to the car even with the insurance eq blow outs, windshields broken and any insurance excesses, you pay parking fees, and toll fees. How much does that cost? Then as a special added bonus if you are lucky enough to be in an auto accident you might pay lawyer fees and have the opportunity to stay in a Mexican prison (Priceless) I prefer to fly and pay the cost of a shuttle.
The person i spoke of in the above post was the brother of a mexican-american living near Mexico City. He drove his truck across the border back from the USA and never made it home. He was apparently stopped, had his truck stolen and was taken away. He was later found beheaded in a mass grave with several other apparent victims of the same type of crime. The Mexican officials have open case files on thousands of kidnap victims. So in answer to your question- Yes, he was an innocent victim. After doing some research for my friend, I found this was not uncommon. Maybe that's why the US State Department has issued a warning on the border towns in Mexico. I have driven in Nogales myself but would never do it again. It is not the easiest town to navigate (I hope you are driving a 4 wheel drive vehicle). I honestly don't know why anyone would want to be driving in Mexico these days. Now when I go to Mexico I generally walk across and park in the USA. In traveling to Europe, Asia and other parts of North America I find that Americans have this obvious obsession with driving cars. Now there are some places it is ok, but when possible that is my last option not my first. For example, you don't really need a car in most of Europe. They have a highly efficient train system. I just got back from Asia for a month and didn't need to rent a car for the entire time and i traveled a great deal when i was there. The one reason people often cite is that it costs to much if you don't have a car. Yeah right! Let's see, you pay to rent the car-of course you can save this if you take your own car but then have to add in the fact that you might see your car dismantled at the border, you pay for gas, you pay for insurance (and you will pay for Mexican insurance no work arounds here), you pay for damage done to the car even with the insurance eq blow outs, windshields broken and any insurance excesses, you pay parking fees, and toll fees. How much does that cost? Then as a special added bonus if you are lucky enough to be in an auto accident you might pay lawyer fees and have the opportunity to stay in a Mexican prison (Priceless) I prefer to fly and pay the cost of a shuttle.
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Jimster and everyone else -- what's your opinion of driving in non-border areas? In particular, down the Yucatan peninsula.
I ask because DW & I are contemplating a trip for our 25th anniversary next Feb. HGVC has an affiliate, an eco-resort near the Mayan ruins at Kohunlich, which is near the town of Chetumal, which is on the border with Belize. About a 4 hour drive from Cancun. We're contemplating 5 days at Kohunlich and a week at Cancun. But there's no direct air between the two (would have to fly through Mexico City), and the busses have bad schedules (leave Chetumal at 4 AM). Overall, it appears to be much more convenient, and cheaper, to fly in and out of Cancun, and rent a car and drive to/from Kohunlich.
I think that area of the country is far away from the drug wars on the US border, so it should be safe. Opinions? Thanks much.
-Bob
I ask because DW & I are contemplating a trip for our 25th anniversary next Feb. HGVC has an affiliate, an eco-resort near the Mayan ruins at Kohunlich, which is near the town of Chetumal, which is on the border with Belize. About a 4 hour drive from Cancun. We're contemplating 5 days at Kohunlich and a week at Cancun. But there's no direct air between the two (would have to fly through Mexico City), and the busses have bad schedules (leave Chetumal at 4 AM). Overall, it appears to be much more convenient, and cheaper, to fly in and out of Cancun, and rent a car and drive to/from Kohunlich.
I think that area of the country is far away from the drug wars on the US border, so it should be safe. Opinions? Thanks much.
-Bob
T_R_Oglodyte
TUG Lifetime Member
If you google around, you can find web sites in travelers from the US and Canada heading into Mexico form caravans. Safety in numbers and it ensures you won't be stranded somewhere if you have mechanical problems.
Jimster
TUG Member
cancun
I can not offer an informed opinion regarding travel beyond the border towns. I do know from my reading of newspaper stories in Mexico that the area around Mexico City is a problem too. Much of this broke in the news when the son of a high Mexican official was taken and slain. As i recall the ransom for the child was paid but he was slain anyway. I will, however post this information I found on the DAE website but notice they are also quoting the Mexican Tourism Board. Also my Mexican American friend would add the entire province of Chihuahua.
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Travel Still Safe to Major Tourist Hubs in Mexico
On February 20, 2009, the U.S. Department of State issued a travel alert to those visiting Mexico, warning of increased violence and drug-related conflicts in several areas. The alert states, in part, "While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased recently."
Travel agents should be aware that the most noteworthy crimes are taking place in border towns including Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez and the city of Chihuahua. The most popular tourist destinations, including Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta, remain safe for visitors.
The following is an abbreviated response from the Mexico Tourism Board:
Mexico remains a safe tourist destination and this is reflected in the 22.6 million international visitors that arrived in 2008, of which 18 million were Americans. This number represents a 5.9 percent increase from the previous year. Tourists who suffered any incidents were minimal.
The violence associated with drug trafficking is isolated in cities that are far away from tourism destinations. We suggest using common precautions as when traveling to any foreign country.
Q: Is Mexico an unsafe place to travel?
Mexico ranks tenth as an international travel destination in the world and is the number one international tourism destination for North Americans traveling abroad. Many tourists to the country are repeat visitors, which demonstrates that the vast majority of tourists are satisfied and leave with overwhelmingly positive impressions.
Q: The travel alert issued by the U.S. State Department warns that even travel within the country beyond the border is dangerous. Should I just avoid traveling to Mexico completely?
No. Common sense and proper precautions must be taken when traveling anywhere, and Mexico is no exception. Whether traveling on the border or if you find yourself in another area of the country, stick to legitimate businesses and tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and your stay should be a memorable and safe experience.
Mexico's frontier, like many other frontiers in other countries, at times experiences certain conflicts and those crossing border states should do so while taking the proper precautions.
Q: Then what do you make of the U.S. State Department warning against travel to the border due to infighting among drug cartels?
In Mexico, the possession and consumption of drugs and narcotics are illegal. The laws governing these offenses are stricter and the resulting fines and prison sentences are often harsher than those provided for in U.S. and Canadian law.
The recent incidents involving drug traffickers have prompted U.S. and Canadian authorities to suggest travelers exercise extra caution when visiting certain border towns.
It is important to note, however, that this temporary announcement does not advise travelers against visiting the many safe tourist destinations. In fact, Leslie Bassett, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, declared that the intention of the alert is to inform of the violent acts that are taking place in specific states of Mexico as well as in other nations. She clarified that in no way does this alert seek to negatively portray the tourist destinations.
Q: Shouldn't everyone just avoid going to Mexico, with everything that is going on with the crime and drug dealers?
It's important to note that hotel occupancy in the popular destinations for tourists within Mexico remains strong. A report from the Secretary of Tourism elaborated this month (February 2009) shows the following: Cancun's hotel occupancy at 73%, Riviera Maya at 85%, Los Cabos at 69% and Puerto Vallarta at 78%,
As the country's promotion agency, the Mexico Tourism Board recommends visitors to contact our many offices for more information on the destination they are planning to visit.
Drug dealing and possession are a social problem that every nation faces, and Mexico is no exception. Visitors can be confident that local authorities are working hard to apprehend all those who violate the law to bring them to justice.
Q: What if something does happen? Will emergency services be able to help?
Federal and local governments are constantly working on improving emergency services, not only for tourists but for locals, too. Visitors should take precautions if they have any pre-existing medical needs and speak to their doctors before they travel abroad. We are also working on raising the bar in our standards to that our guests are kept safe, such as de-legalizing open bars in areas known as Spring Break destinations.
Hundreds of thousands of American students travel to resort areas throughout Mexico over Spring Break each year. The best way to enjoy their vacation without incident is to use some common sense to avoid dangerous situations. We encourage students to drink responsibly and be aware of the laws and regulations.
February 27, 2009 Posted in: Mexico
I can not offer an informed opinion regarding travel beyond the border towns. I do know from my reading of newspaper stories in Mexico that the area around Mexico City is a problem too. Much of this broke in the news when the son of a high Mexican official was taken and slain. As i recall the ransom for the child was paid but he was slain anyway. I will, however post this information I found on the DAE website but notice they are also quoting the Mexican Tourism Board. Also my Mexican American friend would add the entire province of Chihuahua.
Travel Video News
The World On The WebTravel Video News Home
Travel Videos
eBrochures
Book Your Tour
Stock Footage
Contact Us
Travel Still Safe to Major Tourist Hubs in Mexico
On February 20, 2009, the U.S. Department of State issued a travel alert to those visiting Mexico, warning of increased violence and drug-related conflicts in several areas. The alert states, in part, "While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased recently."
Travel agents should be aware that the most noteworthy crimes are taking place in border towns including Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez and the city of Chihuahua. The most popular tourist destinations, including Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta, remain safe for visitors.
The following is an abbreviated response from the Mexico Tourism Board:
Mexico remains a safe tourist destination and this is reflected in the 22.6 million international visitors that arrived in 2008, of which 18 million were Americans. This number represents a 5.9 percent increase from the previous year. Tourists who suffered any incidents were minimal.
The violence associated with drug trafficking is isolated in cities that are far away from tourism destinations. We suggest using common precautions as when traveling to any foreign country.
Q: Is Mexico an unsafe place to travel?
Mexico ranks tenth as an international travel destination in the world and is the number one international tourism destination for North Americans traveling abroad. Many tourists to the country are repeat visitors, which demonstrates that the vast majority of tourists are satisfied and leave with overwhelmingly positive impressions.
Q: The travel alert issued by the U.S. State Department warns that even travel within the country beyond the border is dangerous. Should I just avoid traveling to Mexico completely?
No. Common sense and proper precautions must be taken when traveling anywhere, and Mexico is no exception. Whether traveling on the border or if you find yourself in another area of the country, stick to legitimate businesses and tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and your stay should be a memorable and safe experience.
Mexico's frontier, like many other frontiers in other countries, at times experiences certain conflicts and those crossing border states should do so while taking the proper precautions.
Q: Then what do you make of the U.S. State Department warning against travel to the border due to infighting among drug cartels?
In Mexico, the possession and consumption of drugs and narcotics are illegal. The laws governing these offenses are stricter and the resulting fines and prison sentences are often harsher than those provided for in U.S. and Canadian law.
The recent incidents involving drug traffickers have prompted U.S. and Canadian authorities to suggest travelers exercise extra caution when visiting certain border towns.
It is important to note, however, that this temporary announcement does not advise travelers against visiting the many safe tourist destinations. In fact, Leslie Bassett, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, declared that the intention of the alert is to inform of the violent acts that are taking place in specific states of Mexico as well as in other nations. She clarified that in no way does this alert seek to negatively portray the tourist destinations.
Q: Shouldn't everyone just avoid going to Mexico, with everything that is going on with the crime and drug dealers?
It's important to note that hotel occupancy in the popular destinations for tourists within Mexico remains strong. A report from the Secretary of Tourism elaborated this month (February 2009) shows the following: Cancun's hotel occupancy at 73%, Riviera Maya at 85%, Los Cabos at 69% and Puerto Vallarta at 78%,
As the country's promotion agency, the Mexico Tourism Board recommends visitors to contact our many offices for more information on the destination they are planning to visit.
Drug dealing and possession are a social problem that every nation faces, and Mexico is no exception. Visitors can be confident that local authorities are working hard to apprehend all those who violate the law to bring them to justice.
Q: What if something does happen? Will emergency services be able to help?
Federal and local governments are constantly working on improving emergency services, not only for tourists but for locals, too. Visitors should take precautions if they have any pre-existing medical needs and speak to their doctors before they travel abroad. We are also working on raising the bar in our standards to that our guests are kept safe, such as de-legalizing open bars in areas known as Spring Break destinations.
Hundreds of thousands of American students travel to resort areas throughout Mexico over Spring Break each year. The best way to enjoy their vacation without incident is to use some common sense to avoid dangerous situations. We encourage students to drink responsibly and be aware of the laws and regulations.
February 27, 2009 Posted in: Mexico
Last edited:
Socko33
Guest
Cancun - Chetumal
I am also planning the same trip as Blues for Thanksgiving week this year.
I will need to drive from Cancun to Chetumal/Kohunlich and back.
http://www.upgradetravelbetter.com/2...-credit-limit/
http://travel.latimes.com/articles/l...pot1-2008jun01
And, I just called AmEx...
AmEx will cover $50,000 in collision, but they don't cover liability...so if other people in the other car are hurt, then it is NOT covered...
Do i still need to buy extra Mexican insurance? Is this being overly cautious? If I buy the Mexican insurance, it cancels out the affordable rental car...is the AmEx enough?
This could just be an easy drive with no incidents...
Any thoughts appreciated!
I am also planning the same trip as Blues for Thanksgiving week this year.
I will need to drive from Cancun to Chetumal/Kohunlich and back.
http://www.upgradetravelbetter.com/2...-credit-limit/
http://travel.latimes.com/articles/l...pot1-2008jun01
And, I just called AmEx...
AmEx will cover $50,000 in collision, but they don't cover liability...so if other people in the other car are hurt, then it is NOT covered...
Do i still need to buy extra Mexican insurance? Is this being overly cautious? If I buy the Mexican insurance, it cancels out the affordable rental car...is the AmEx enough?
This could just be an easy drive with no incidents...
Any thoughts appreciated!
T_R_Oglodyte
TUG Lifetime Member
To understand insurance coverage, you need to think in terms of "parties". You are the "first party". When you enter into a contract with someone else, they are the "second party". Even if there is more than one person on the other side of the contract, they are collectively and individually the "second party". Everyone else in the world who is not part of the contract is a "third party". You can purchase insurance for damages for each of the parties; "first party" insurance is for damages you cause to yourself, "second party" liability coverage is for damage you cause to the other parties to the contract, "third party" liability insurance is for damages you cause to people who are not part of the contract.
Look at the AmEx coverage - that is second party liability coverage. It covers you for damages that you might cause to the rental company. It should cover damages to the car and charges for loss of use of the car while it is being repaired or replaced. It is not third party liability insurance.
Mexican law requires that third party liability coverage be provided by an insurance company authorized to sell third party liabiity insurance in Mexico. It is also illegal to drive a vehicle in Mexico without thrid party liabilty insurance or other acceptable evidence of financial responsibility. Your personal auto policy is a third party liability policy. However, it most likely excludes coverage in Mexico because of that provision I just mentioned. Mexican coverage might be available from your US carrier, but it would likely require a rider and payment of an additional premium.
So if your following this discussion, you should now realize that the policy that you need to have is a TPL policy - third party liability.
****
If you're doing a rental car, the car rental company will probably try to sell you an entire insurance package, combining both second and third party liability. If you're renting with a credit card, the chances are very good that the coverage included with your card will actually provide superior coverage to that being offered by the car rental company, at no additional charge to you. Also be sure that your credit card coverage includes loss of use.
But you will still need to obtain TPL coverage. And the car rental company will probably not let you take the vehicle off the lot unless you either buy their coverage or provide proof of coverage under another policy that is acceptable to to them.
****
As I mentioned above, it is illegal to operate a vehicle in Mexico without proof of third party liability insurance. Being a former Spanish colony, the Mexico legal system follows the Napoleonic code, not the British system used in the US and Canada. That means that a police officer can stop you at any time for any reason (the concept of "probable cause" does not exist under Napoleonic Code). Further the police are empowered to take action at any time they believe they have sufficient information to act.
Since TPL is required to operate a motor vehicle under Mexican law, any failure by you to provide proof of coverage is sufficient information for them to conclude you are probably breaking the law and to immediately take appropriate action. If you are asked to produce proof of insurance as a result of an accident, it makes no difference whether or not the accident is your fault. The police will ask to see prroof of insurance and failure to provide proof will be taken seriously, particularly if you are a norte americano.
I've enjoyed the couple of times I've had a rental vehicle in Mexico. But make sure that you've got yourself appropriately covered and protected.
Jimster
TUG Member
Correct me if I am wrong
The above post sets out the coverages and liabilities very well. It is illegal to drive in Mexico without proof of Mexican insurance, but I want to take the gloves off a bit in regard to the punishment. What is meant by appropriate action? It includes being hauled off to a Mexican jail. Here you will discover there are also differences between American law and Mexican law-including the idea of a speedy trial. As you are sitting in your Mexican jail cell you will probably also find other rather obvious differences-they do not concern themselves with jail conditions or prisoner rights. Of course proof of insurance is only one thing that can land you in jail. Let's say you are in an accident (absolutely and totally no fault of your own and you have third party Mexican insurance) The officer asks you in spanish what happened? The Mexican who was the other party in the accident explains it. He turns to you and asks you in spanish, your side of the story. You respond in spanish "........" Guess who gets a ticket? You know what a ticket is right? It is a criminal offense-punishable by jail time. Oh sure, in the USA we don't think of traffic offenses necessarily as criminal (except DUI) but that is what it is. Maybe you are lucky and spend only a few hours in jail; maybe you are not...... I don't mean to frighten people about all this but I do want them to have some clue as to what they are doing. HL Menken wrote: "God protects women, children and Americans" Do your due diligence and access your risks. Far be it from me to advise you what to do, but look for me on the bus or shuttle.
The above post sets out the coverages and liabilities very well. It is illegal to drive in Mexico without proof of Mexican insurance, but I want to take the gloves off a bit in regard to the punishment. What is meant by appropriate action? It includes being hauled off to a Mexican jail. Here you will discover there are also differences between American law and Mexican law-including the idea of a speedy trial. As you are sitting in your Mexican jail cell you will probably also find other rather obvious differences-they do not concern themselves with jail conditions or prisoner rights. Of course proof of insurance is only one thing that can land you in jail. Let's say you are in an accident (absolutely and totally no fault of your own and you have third party Mexican insurance) The officer asks you in spanish what happened? The Mexican who was the other party in the accident explains it. He turns to you and asks you in spanish, your side of the story. You respond in spanish "........" Guess who gets a ticket? You know what a ticket is right? It is a criminal offense-punishable by jail time. Oh sure, in the USA we don't think of traffic offenses necessarily as criminal (except DUI) but that is what it is. Maybe you are lucky and spend only a few hours in jail; maybe you are not...... I don't mean to frighten people about all this but I do want them to have some clue as to what they are doing. HL Menken wrote: "God protects women, children and Americans" Do your due diligence and access your risks. Far be it from me to advise you what to do, but look for me on the bus or shuttle.
T_R_Oglodyte
TUG Lifetime Member
And the reality is that there are many people from the US, Canada, and other countries driving vehicles in Mexico without problems. There are risks, and people who should know the risks and make intelligent decisions with which they feel comfortable.
Describing dire situations as if they are the norm does not provide an objective perspective on risks. That's not to say they don't happen or can't happen, but they are not the norm.
******
It's like helicopter crashes in Hawai'i. They do happen, and when they occur people are usually killed. Some people consider the risk too great; others are quite happy to take the risk.
But a post that reads something like, "Oh my God!!! You're thinking about flying in a helicopter in Hawai'i?? Do you know how often those things crash? If the chopper goes down on Wai'ale'ale that's complete jungle and they won't even be able to get to the crash site for weeks." is not a post that provides accurate perspective.
Same thing here. Collect your info, figure out things you can do to manage risks, and if you feel comfortable with the residual risk, go for it.
Describing dire situations as if they are the norm does not provide an objective perspective on risks. That's not to say they don't happen or can't happen, but they are not the norm.
******
It's like helicopter crashes in Hawai'i. They do happen, and when they occur people are usually killed. Some people consider the risk too great; others are quite happy to take the risk.
But a post that reads something like, "Oh my God!!! You're thinking about flying in a helicopter in Hawai'i?? Do you know how often those things crash? If the chopper goes down on Wai'ale'ale that's complete jungle and they won't even be able to get to the crash site for weeks." is not a post that provides accurate perspective.
Same thing here. Collect your info, figure out things you can do to manage risks, and if you feel comfortable with the residual risk, go for it.
Socko33
Guest
Thanks for the info.
Do you know where I can find affordable third party insurance for Mexico?
That way i can take that out in addition to the coverage provided by my credit card...
Do you know where I can find affordable third party insurance for Mexico?
That way i can take that out in addition to the coverage provided by my credit card...
Jimster
TUG Member
3rd party
Contact your current auto policy company for third party coverage-see what they say and if necessary shop around.
And I find myself again agreeing that the problems I describe are not the norm but the exception. On the risk assessment level I am sure they come in much higher than the helicoper crashes but it is still a good analogy. That is what I meant at the close of my last post- you need to make your own risk assessment but you need to really know what the risks are. Too many Americans are clueless that these problems are even possible. The effects are catastrophic when it does happen. I am reminded of another comment. When asked about freedom of speech in the Soviet Union controlled by Stalin, the government official was asked: "Do you have freedom of speech in the USSR?" He answered: "Yes, of course! You can say anything once." Once is all it takes here too.
Contact your current auto policy company for third party coverage-see what they say and if necessary shop around.
And I find myself again agreeing that the problems I describe are not the norm but the exception. On the risk assessment level I am sure they come in much higher than the helicoper crashes but it is still a good analogy. That is what I meant at the close of my last post- you need to make your own risk assessment but you need to really know what the risks are. Too many Americans are clueless that these problems are even possible. The effects are catastrophic when it does happen. I am reminded of another comment. When asked about freedom of speech in the Soviet Union controlled by Stalin, the government official was asked: "Do you have freedom of speech in the USSR?" He answered: "Yes, of course! You can say anything once." Once is all it takes here too.
T_R_Oglodyte
TUG Lifetime Member
Google it. If you intend to get rental insurance from someone other than the car rental agency, you should be clear with the rental agency upfront that you will be providing both second and third party liability insurance. Verify what documents they will need from you to be satisfied you do have your own TPL. I would not be the least surprised if you find that some agencies are not interested in renting to you unless you purchase both their second and third party insurance. There may be an additional group that will let you provide second party liability via credit card, but that will not let you have the car unless you purchase their TPL.
It's best to be clear on such matters before you arrive at the rental agency, and to bring with you written confirmation (such as printed e-mails) confirmin that you can decline coverages.
It's pretty early (late?) for me but I hope someone mentioned you are required to have Mexican Insurance while driving in Mexico. It can be obtained easily through your local AAA, on line at ESTABLISHED insurance companies (SEGURO?) or near most border crossings. You can buy it based on the time you will be in Mexico. As they say, I wouldn't leave home without it!