Recent incidents involving U.S. citizens who were injured in traffic crashes in Mexico have highlighted the significant differences between the legal systems of Mexico and the United States. If you are involved in a motor vehicle crash in Mexico, it is likely that you will be detained until fault can be determined by the local authorities. If you are in need of medical attention, you will generally be taken to the closest medical facility for treatment while the authorities investigate the incident. If you are found to be 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:

Remember, you are visiting another country. Respect and obey their laws, just as we expect visitors to our country to obey ours.

• Possession of cash ( usually between $5000 - $10,000) or

• Possession of automobile insurance which is issued through 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 several established firms in San Diego County, at a cost of about $12.00 for one day, with decreasing rates for longer stays.

• If you stay in Mexico for longer 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 crash, your Mexican insurance will not be valid. Don't drive while even slightly "under the influence"

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 rather than miles per hour. Obey the speed limits and other traffic controls, even if it seems that everyone else totally ignores them.

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