Love getting behind the wheel and cruising the open road, taking in all the sights along the way? Maybe you are planning a cross-country trip to Canada or headed down south to Mexico for a much-needed beach vacation. Before you load up the car and hit play on your favorite road trip playlist, be sure you have the right coverages in place on your Colorado auto insurance policy. You don’t want to find yourself in an auto accident in a different country without protection from your auto insurance coverage.
Headed to Mexico? You Will Need a Mexican Auto Policy
While your auto insurance will cover you if you drive across state lines to Kansas if you plan on heading to a Mexican beach getaway your Colorado auto insurance won’t cover you after you cross the border. US auto insurance policies are not valid in Mexico and some may not have coverage within a certain mileage from the border. Even if you are only there for a short time, you will need to purchase a Mexican auto policy. Without one, you could find yourself behind bars if you are involved in an accident. Mexican authorities take auto insurance very seriously, and you could stay in jail until it is proven you can pay for the accident. It’s best to get an auto insurance policy specifically for driving in Mexico before leaving for the border. Don’t forget your passport and drivers license as well!
Follow these safety tips when driving in Mexico:
- Keep the flashy items at home; only take what is necessary. While traveling to Mexico is relatively safe, you don’t want to make yourself a target.
- Drive during daylight hours.
- Don’t drink and drive.
- In Mexico, it is illegal to drink on the streets or in your car.
- It’s a good idea to make multiple copies of all essential travel documents. Put one in your wallet, your luggage and back home with a relative.
- If you are caught with drugs in Mexico, you will go to jail.
- You may want to register with The Department of State before you go.
Traveling to Canada?
On the flip-side, if you are headed north to Canada, your auto insurance policy will provide coverage for your time there. Make sure you have your passport, auto insurance card, driver’s license and any other important travel documents you may need. Compare rates online.
Driving tips for traveling through Canada:
- Driving in Canada is like driving in the US.
- Speed limits are posted in metric units.
- Depending on the province road signs will be in English, French or Both.
- Seatbelts are required across the county.
- Cell phones must be used hands-free when driving.
- If traveling in the winter, be sure to check weather conditions. Winter driving can be treacherous for even the most experienced drivers.
Colorado Safe Driving Takeaways
Whether you are planning a trip north or south, review your current auto insurance coverages before hitting the road. Make sure you have enough auto liability limits and coverages to protect you from any unforeseen accidents along the way. Having the proper auto insurance in place is just as important as preparing your vehicle for the long road trip. You could be left stranded without it.
MUC9-2019-TIM
