If you are thinking of taking your car south of the border down Mexico way, then check out these tips to avoid finding yourself doing the Mexican Hat Dance.

1. Driving Conditions in Mexico

To put it politely, driving in Mexico can be quite an adventure! Minor bumps and fender-benders are quite common, especially at intersections and stop lights. It is a fairly common practice for Mexican drivers to disable their tail lights with the sole purpose of causing someone to bump into their rear in order to claim on their insurance. So, stay well back!.

If you can, avoid driving at night. Nearly 90% of fatalities on Mexican roads occur during the hours of darkness.

2. Mexican Auto Insurance

Having Mexican auto insurance is a must as U.S. and Canadian auto insurance is not recognized in Mexico. Not having Mexican auto insurance can lead to jail time and the confiscation of your vehicle. It' best to buy your Mexican auto insurance before you enter Mexico but the Mexican authorities will allow you to drive up to 25 miles over the border to purchase it in Mexico.

3. Check Your Medical Insurance

As stated above, driving in Mexico can be dangerous so you should consider taking out emergency assistance coverage as most health insurance providers in the States do not cover Mexico.

4. Legal and Bond Expenses

Make sure your Mexican auto insurance policy includes a provision for Legal Assistance and Bond Expenses because believe it or not, according to Mexican law, which is based upon the Napoleonic Code, you are considered guilty until proven otherwise and having an accident is a felony. The Mexican police have the right to impound your car and detain you whilst they investigate the case and if found guilty, until you have paid the damages that have been deemed to have been caused by you.

5. When in Mexico

Documents you should take with you for your trip to Mexico

Tourist Card

Temporary vehicle importation permit

Insurance Premium payment receipt

Driving licence

Your Mexican auto insurance policy

Mexican Insurance ID card

Proof of ownership of the vehicle

Proof of citizenship (passport or ID)

Always keep these document on you person. Do not leave them in your vehicle in case it gets stolen.

6. Where to Purchase Your Mexican Auto Insurance

The quickest and simplest way to purchase auto insurance for Mexico is via the Internet. When looking for a plan, look for one that offers the following:

Third Party (Civil) Liability

Medical Expenses for Driver and Occupants

Physical Damage and Total Theft of Vehicle

Legal Assistance and Bail Bond

Roadside Assistance

Partial Theft and Vandalism

Guaranteed Hospital Admission

When considering emergency medical coverage make sure you include any activities to intend to follow in Mexico that could be considered dangerous, and look for plans that contain the following

Air Or Land Evacuation

Rural Mexico Territory Exclusion

Exclusions For Pre-Conditions (Except Late Pregnancy)

Sport Or Adventure Activity Exclusions (such as Surfing, Cycling, Mountain Biking, Mountain

Climbing, Snorkeling)

Civil War Or Terrorism Exclusions