My husband, 1 yr old son and I are headed to a B&B just south of Todos Santos in a few weeks. We're renting a car and I've read on some websites that we need Mexican auto insurance. What's your advice?

A couple of years ago, I traveled with a group just over the border past McAllen, Texas, on a mission trip. We had our own vans, but had to purchase the insurance (or were strongly advised to) on this side before entering. At least in that area, there were several companies set up for this purpose.

Do buy Mexican insurance. Your US insurance is not valid and without Mexican insurance, you could have major problems. It is reasonable and can be bought at the border for any number of days.

Definitely purchase the Mexican auto insurance! I never drive there, but had a friend who rented a car last March, and was involved in an accident between Mexico City and Morelia. It has been almost a year since, and they are still crossing their fingers. I wish he would've listened!

If you're paying with a credit card, check what your policy is with them. Our amex card covers auto insurance, even in Mexico.

When we have rented, you do a thorough inspection with a drawing of the car, marking any damages on the car when you pick it up. They will compare this upon your return. We have had good luck with AVIS.

If you're renting a car, check with the rental company. If you're renting in Mexico, some insurance may be included in your rates and you may need to buy extra coverage through them.

Have fun!
Mark
www.tiogringo.com

I also have credit cards which say they cover the insurance in Mexico. However, I still buy the insurance. Having your credit card company say you are covered and convincing Mexican law enforcement of this, are two different things. I prefer to err on the safe side since Mexican law in case of an accident, is much different than US law.

ditto, ditto, ditto! (read above)

Auto Liability Insurance is required in Mexico.
Many MX rentals (the majors) provide that coverage. CDW is your choice - your CC provider may cover it or you can buy it from the rental agency.
I would recommend "abogado" coverage if you are bringing you own vehicle and don't have a MX lawyer (I have two), but I have never seen this from the rental folks. If you draw blood in a crash, you'll go to jail and the "lawyer" gets you out "quickly", lol.
M

By the way, I don't know how many of y'all regular travellers to Mexico do this, but the last couple of trips across the border I bought my liability insurance online through Oscar Padilla's web site (www.mexicaninsurance.com). I was pleasantly surprised at how easy the process was, and the rates seemed to run about half what I'd been paying through the insurance broker guys in the border towns.

Do any of y'all have any experience with having to make claims through these folks?

Have fun!
Mark
www.tiogringo.com