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The State Department, which is the lead US foreign affairs agency, says that many American tourists think that the security and safety standards in Mexico are about the same as they are in the United States. Unfortunately, this isn't true. These assumptions have led both to serious injuries and death to innocent vacationers. 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. Mexican Law: Driving The laws in Mexico are built from the Napoleonic Code, which places the presumption of guilt on an individual before innocence. All drivers need a Mexican insurance policy that comes from a company that is recognized as valid in Mexico. U.S liability insurance is simply not valid in Mexico. This includes most of the major U.S. collision and comprehensive coverage plans. Since many Mexican auto policies sold are a la carte, you should secure a plan that covers legal assistance (including any bond fees) within your automobile policy. Traffic accidents are seen as felonies in Mexico. As the authorities look into who is responsible, you may face having your car impounded while you are kept in Mexican detention (jail). 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." Emergency Services and Evacuation 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. Many medical assistance plans only cover portions of the cost depending on location, activity or cause of injury. For those with Medicare, costs for hospital or medical care outside the United States are not covered at all. It is vital to pay attention to various exclusions within many Mexico auto and US medical insurance policies. Mexican auto insurance should be accompanied by an emergency medical assistance clause, as very few health US plans allow or cover international medical evacuation. How Should You Select a Plan? Do your homework online using the keywords, Mexican auto insurance. Try to find a legitimite plan that is affordable. In addition, you can use the information provided herein. Adequate Bodily Injury And Property Damage Auto Liability Coverage using CSL or Split Limits Medical Expenses for Driver and Occupants Medical Assistance including air and land evacuation Physical Damage and Total Theft of Vehicle (If 15 years or newer) Repair in Mexico or US with increased Labor Rate Legal Assistance Including Bail Bond Expenses Roadside Assistance and Car Rental Partial Theft 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. Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com
Author Linden Gray is an international insurance veteran with over 29 years of retail & direct insurance experience. Mr. Gray has been featured in numerous media including RV Magazine, PE.com, Google, Yahoo, Digg & Buzzle. Visit his website here: Mexican Auto Insurance.
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