Driving in Mexico is very similar to driving in the US or Canada and is very safe. You will find that Mexicans are very polite and quite willing to help. As with anywhere, drive slowly, respect traffic laws and never drink and drive. This is your vacation, so please take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Practical Driving Tips
Important Things to Know
Buying Fuel
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Finding a Rental Car
Area Maps
Mexico Connect, A Quick Guide to Driving
Travel Yucatan, Things to know about Driving in the Yucatan

A few practical tips:

1. DRIVE DEFENSIVELY. Drive slowly, keep your distance and be pending of pedestrians and livestock along the road. This is the most important thing we can say. Remember that many drivers in Mexico do not routinely use their turn signals and some vehicles will not have functioning brake lights. Avoid accidents by keeping your distance, using your turn signals and being aware.

2. Buy Mexican Auto Insurance. In the event of an accident Mexican authorities will not accept foreign auto insurance policies. Having Mexican auto insurance means that someone is looking out for you. This is very important and should put your mind at ease. In the event of an accident you may not be allowed to move your vehicle and could be detained by police until fault can be established. This is especially true in cases where someone is injured.

Mexican insurance companies are professionals at dealing with these situations. A claims adjuster and an attorney may meet you at the scene or police station. In most cases once you have presented your proof of Mexican insurance you will be free to go. Rental car agencies will often send a client representative to translate if needed and generally walk you through the process.

3. Try to restrict driving to daylight hours. This is common sense wherever you drive. Traffic hazards, pedestrians and livestock are all much easier to see.

4. Watch out for “Topes” Widely used in Mexico, “Topes” or Speed Bumps have prove to be very effective at decreasing speed and encouraging drivers to move forward cautiously. They are in fact so effective that you will find in most residential areas.

Important Things to Know:

1. THE LEFT TURN One of the most obvious differences between driving in Mexico and driving in the US is use of the left turn signal. This is also one of the most frequent causes of vehicle accidents in our area. What you need to know: While driving on the highway, a left turn signal is an invitation for the car behind you to pass.

Trucks and busses frequently use their left turn signal as a way of communicating an opportunity to pass. If you are turning left, pull off to the right and allow vehicles behind you to travel through. DO NOT STOP in the highway with your left turn signal on. The person traveling behind you may interpret this as “an all clear” signal and attempt to pass. Remember to use common sense and good judgment. The Riviera Maya is home to people from all over the world, some who use their left turn signal for nothing more than a simple left turn.

2. NO SHOULDER Rollovers and other accidents are often the result of loose or no shoulder along the roadside. When a shoulder is present it often doubles as a bus stop, livestock crossing or roadside stand. Drive slowly and don’t expect to have a shoulder present.

3. THE GREEN ANGELS The Green Angels patrol Mexico’s highways and provide FREE roadside assistance should you break down or be involved in an accident. You will know them by the bright green truck. They can be seen regularly on Highway 307 between Cancun and Tulum and also traveling the highways between the coast and Merida.

Buying Fuel in Mexico

PEMEX is the national chain of fuel providers and the only official outlet. The PEMEX stations are easily recognized by their bright green color scheme. Unleaded gasoline is referred to as “Magna Sin”. Some stations also offer “Magna Premium” which has a higher-octane level.
1. Be prepared to pay for your fuel with Mexican Currency. Although may PEMEX stations accept US Currency the exchange rate is very poor.

2. During busy travel times gas shortages are not infrequent. Always top off your fuel tank when near a station.

3. Gasoline is measured in liters in Mexico, 1 gallon = 3.3785 liters

4. Be aware that some gas stations in Mexico have been known to attempt certain 'rip-off' ploys. To avoid being ripped-off, make sure the fuel pump is set to $0.00 when you begin fueling.

5. Pay careful attention to how much change you should receive in return when paying for your fuel. Gas station attendants have been known to intentionally give tourists the incorrect amount of change.

6. We prefer the PEMEX station just outside of Puerto Aventuras, on the right side of the highway as you are traveling north towards Cancun. Most stations in the Rivera Maya are reputable and courteous. We do however encourage you to be aware when purchasing fuel. We advise extra caution if filling up at the station in Tulum.

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