The Complete Mexican Insurance Online Guide to Highways and Freeways of Mexico

Traveling to Mexico by your own car has numerous advantages, mainly the fact that you can choose which routes to take. Traveling through Mexico you will find yourself mainly cruising along two types of roads: freeways (called the libre) or highways (autopista).

Depending on which road you choose your trip to Mexico will be completely different, both in terms of scenery and the overall driving experience. In this Mexican Insurance Online guide we will explain the main differences between the two roads and what they mean for your trip to Mexico.

Scenic Freeways

The libres are small, local roads usually with only two lanes. They are usually old and will take the driver though beautiful scenic landscapes, including natural wonders and small towns. In these rural areas freeways are often neglected and lack any road signs.

Drivers taking these roads will also face unforeseen challenges like farm animals wandering the same roads or potholes scattered around. Finally, many drivers are completely unaware of speed bumps or topes, meant to jolt you if you are driving too fast.

However, all of these challenges pay out once you see the beautiful scenery along these old roads. The view is definitely more interesting than the vast concrete landscape of the highways. You will find many cozy, traditional restaurants along these roads as well as small shops, schools, churches and repair shops. Driving along the libre you will experience the authentic side of Mexico.

Reliable Highways

Highways or autopistas represent the other side of the coin. Like US highways they are straight roads with shoulders. They are well maintained, three or four-lane roads with visible road sings and markings, occasional gas stops, restaurants, shops and toll-booths.

These toll-booths represent the biggest challenge to many unprepared tourists driving to Mexico. The tolls are determined by the distance traveled and the road taken. If you travel long distances make sure to take a lot of cash with you, as ATMs are hard to find along the highways and not all toll-booths accept cards.

If you use cash to pay the toll you will get a receipt which you should keep for the entire trip. On the back of this receipt you will find an emergency contact number in case you experience a car malfunction or a road hazard. If you have to contact them make sure to give them the kilometer number nearest to you. They are found along the road and resemble the US mile markers.

The Mexican department of federal roads and bridges (CAPUFE) will then dispatch a fleet of repair trucks which operate along these roads. Tow-trucks are rarely used in Mexico. Instead mechanics come to you and if your vehicle needs spare parts, they will go back and get them. Mechanics usually don’t accept cards, which is why you should always have some spare cash in case of a road emergency.

Purchase Mexican Insurance Online for a Safe Trip to Mexico

Of course, if you have proper Mexican Car insurance many accidents will be covered, therefore, remain alert but relax and enjoy the drive! In the unfortunate event of an accident, contact your Mexican Insurance provider and they will handle subsequent, related issues. As you already know, US and Canadian auto insurance policies don’t cover you while on your drive across Mexico. If you do not have a Mexican auto insurance policy you do risk arrest and liability charges if you are involved in an accident along the freeways and highways of Mexico. For more information about car insurance in Mexico visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.