Travel and Transportation
Road Conditions and Safety
If case of an emergency while driving, call “911.” If you are traveling on a toll or major highway (“cuota”) in Mexico, you may reach out to the Green Angels (Spanish only), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone inthe country. Those involved in an accident who don't need immediate medical attention should notify their insurers for a prompt evaluation.
Driving on Mexican highways during nighttime is not advisable. Bring along a fully charged, and operational cell phone capable of making calls while traveling in Mexico. Always exercise caution and opt for the toll (“cuota”) roads over less secure free (“libre”) roads whenever feasable.
Do not hitchhike or accept rides from or offer rides to strangers anywhere in Mexico.
Travelers should comply with instructions when encountering police or security checkpoints. Road conditions and maintenance throughout Mexico vary, with many roads surfaces requiring repair.
Additionaly, traveling through rural areas poses extra risks due to spotty cell phone coverage and possible delays in receiving roadside or medical assistance.
Traffic Laws
International driver’s licenses are accepted in Mexico. Mexican law dictates that only vehicle owners or those accompanied by owners may operate vehicles. Failure to comply may result in vehicle impoundment and a fine that equals the vehicle's value.
Mexican insurance is mandatory for all vehicles, including rentals. Drivers involved in accidents, even minor incidents, may face arrest if they are caught driving without adequate insurance, regardless of fault. It is illegal in Mexico to drive under the influence of alcohol, use of a mobile device while driving, or run through a yellow light.
Public Transportation/Taxis
Security on public buses varies throughout the country but they are generally considered a safe transportation option in Mexico City and other major tourist centers. Passengers are advised to safeguard their personal belongings at all times to avoid theft, wich is a common occurrence. Intercity bus travel should take place during daylight hours, preferably on first-class buses that use toll roads.
Robberies and assaults on passengers are frequent in taxis not affiliated with a taxi stand, commonly known as “libre” taxis. It is recommended to avoid taking any taxi not summoned by telephone or contacted in advance, including “libre” taxis. When in need of a taxi, call a radio taxi or a regulated taxi stand (called “sitio”), and ask the dispatcher for the driver’s name and the taxi’s license plate number. Application-based car services like Uber and Cabify are widely available in several Mexican cities, providing a secure alternative to traditional taxis.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mexico may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mexico, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.