People visit Mexico to have a good time–and that good time, sometimes, involves alcohol or drugs. Cities like Tijuana, Rosarito Beach, Cabo San Lucas–these places draw vacationers from all over the world. There are lots of bars, clubs, and events where the alcohol flows quite freely. If you are driving to Mexico and plan to operate your vehicle during your getaway, you need to be aware of Mexico’s DUI laws–and how drinking or getting baked and driving can affect–and negate–your Mexican car insurance.
Driving Drunk and/or Stoned is a Criminal Offense
Just as in the U.S., impaired driving in Mexico is a criminal offense that can land you in jail. In most Mexican states, the limit for blood-alcohol level is 0.8, but in states like Veracruz, Jalisco, and Chihuahua, that threshold is even less. If Mexican police suspect that you are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they can pull you over. At that point, they can administer a breathalyzer test. Drunk driving is a serious offense in Mexico. In fact, if you have a drunk driving conviction in your history, you may even be denied entry to Mexico.
A DUI in Mexico Can Negate Your Insurance
In order to drive legally in Mexico–anywhere in Mexico, including the border areas–you need to have Mexico auto insurance. However, there are various ways that you can negate your insurance and drunk driving is one of them. Your Mexico auto insurance provider will not cover you, for instance, if you have crashed your vehicle and have been found to be over the legal limit for alcohol consumption.
Don’t Drive Drunk or High in Mexico
If you plan to do your fair share of partying in beautiful Mexico, be sure that you park your vehicle and leave it alone. Don’t operate it if you are drinking. If you’re in one of Mexico’s popular tourist towns, take taxis to reach your destination. If you plan to drink and party in Mexico, it’s safest to confine your good time to your resort or a club. You don’t want to be caught stumbling around Mexico’s streets as public drunkenness is an arrestable offense–and you can also leave yourself vulnerable to theft if you are roaming around while under the influence.
You can have a great time in Mexico, enjoying its famous tequila, celebrated beers, and upscale wines. However, be sure that you don’t get behind the wheel of a car when partying or you can risk jail time.
Cabify, UBER, Didi
Before heading to Mexico, download your favorite app or have a designated driver ready. Remember that nothing is as regulated in Mexico as in the United States, so be alert, don’t overdo it, and become dependent on people you don’t know. Systems like Uber, Didi, or Cabify have different regulations and requirements. If you feel you need to get hammered when you drink, call AA and get to a meeting.
