TIPS FOR TRAVELERS WHO DRIVE TO MEXICO
Recent incidents involving U.S. citizens who were injured in traffic
collisions in Mexico have highlighted significant differences between the
legal systems of Mexico and those of the United States. If you are involved
in a motor vehicle accident in Mexico, it is likely that you will be detained
until local authorities can determine fault. If you need medical attention,
you will generally be taken to the closest medical facility for treatment
while the authorities are investigating the incident. If you are found at
fault, you will be required to demonstrate financial responsibility, and post
a bond to cover the estimated costs, before you will be released. Financial
responsibility can be demonstrated in one of two ways:
Possession of cash (usually between $5000 - $10,000) or
Possession of an automobile insurance issued by an authorized Mexican
insurance company

THE AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE THAT YOU HAVE FOR DRIVING IN THE UNITED STATES WILL
NOT SATISFY THIS REQUIREMENT.
In order to minimize potential problems while driving in Mexico, it is
suggested that you adhere to the following tips:
Always obtain Mexican automobile insurance to cover LIABILITY and LEGAL
ASSISTANCE. Such coverage is readily available from California Baja,
Rent-A-Car in San Diego County, at a cost from $16.00 for one day, depending
on the value of the vehicle you are renting.

If you stay in Mexico for more than 72 hours, you must have an FM-T tourist
permit. Such permits now cost 170 Mexican pesos, valid for up to six months,
and can be obtained at a Mexican Consulate or at the border. Failure to
obtain such a permit may invalidate your Mexican insurance.
If it is determined that the consumption of alcohol or drugs contributed to a
traffic collision, your Mexican insurance will no longer be valid. Don't
drive while even slightly "under the influence of alcohol "
HAVE A DESIGNATED DRIVER.

It is STRICTLY FORBIDDEN to bring firearms or ammunition into Mexico. If you
do so, and you are caught, you will go to jail. If you plan to hunt in
Mexico, visit the Mexican Consulate to obtain necessary permits.
When driving in Mexico, remember that speed limits are posted in kilometers
per hour instead miles. Abide by traffic laws, even if it seems that everyone
else is not.

If you are on a motorcycle, remember that Mexico has a helmet law.

Remember, you are visiting another country. Respect and obey their laws, just
as we expect visitors to our country to do the same
Should you experience an emergency while traveling in Mexico, the following
are various agencies that may be contacted for assistance:
United States Consulate General Tijuana
>From the U.S. - 011-52-66-81-7400
>From Tijuana - (66) 81-7400
>From Baja California Sur - (114) 3-3566
Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm (Monday - Friday)
After Hours: (619) 692-2154 (evenings / weekends / holidays)
This number is an answering service

Binational Emergency Medical Care Committee (BEMCC)
(619) 425-5080 (24 hours / 7 days)
492 Third Avenue, Suite 205
Chula Vista, CA 91910
BEMCC provides services to persons who experience a serious medical emergency
while in Mexico and need assistance to return to the United States for
medical care. Volunteers assist in medical transportation and will make
arrangements at the receiving hospital in the United States. Annual
memberships are available for $25, but not required to obtain services. When
calling from Mexico, you may call collect and immediately notify the operator
that your call is an emergency.
Green Angels
Ensenada - (617) 646-85
Tijuana - (66) 24-34-79
The Green Angels are a federally sponsored organization that patrols Mexico's
main highways from 8 am to 8 pm. The Green Angels are trained mechanics that
are also trained in basic first aid and carry oil, gasoline spare parts,
tools and communications capabilities. You will only be charged for the
equipment used i.e. gasoline or spare parts, not for the mechanics services.
The Green Angels get their names from the green and white trucks they drive.
Attorney General for the Protection of Tourists
State Tourist Assistance Offices are located in major towns and cities
throughout the Baja peninsula. If you need legal aid or wish to register a
complaint, bilingual staff in these offices will be able to assist you during
regular business hours
Tijuana - (66) 880-555
Rosarito - (661) 20-200
Ensenada - (617) 23-022
Mexicali - (655) 41-095
Tecate - (665) 61-072
La Paz - (112) 25-939
The information set forth above does not include all available information
regarding traveling in Mexico. Therefore, travelers should inquire about the
law and procedures in Mexico, prior to entering Mexico.