In November, the 2018 Rocky Point Motorcycle Rally kicked off. It was a year of great success, and Sanborn’s Mexico Auto Insurance was proud to be a sponsor. And now that last year’s event has wrapped, it’s time to start all over again. Rocky Point is one of the biggest motorcycle meetups south of the U.S. border. If you want to go in 2019, start planning now. Let’s look at some of the ways that you can start preparing today!
International motorcycling will involve a few unique driving risks. It also means taking a few extra insurance and registration precautions. There’s also an element of safety that you need to consider. With a little attention to detail, you can make sure your trip is purely about the fun.
Understanding International Driving Risks
Mexico and the U.S. share a lot in common. However, there are a lot of differences as well. Driving across the border will mean you’ll face a few different challenges with which you might not be familiar.
- You’ll see similarities in traffic laws and infrastructure between the two countries. However, you’ll also notice key differences. For example, Spanish traffic signs, left-lane exits and police checkpoints might all look unfamiliar if you run across them.
- Differences in insurance laws might mean you will face different results if you experience a bike accident. Mexican law has its basis in Roman law and the Napoleonic code. In short, individuals arrested or detained in Mexico are guilty until proven innocent. That’s the opposite of the U.S. The process for determining fault and filing insurance claims might seem unfamiliar.
Factors like these mean you should take extra precautions when traveling to, in and around Rocky Point. How can you do so?
Getting Ready for Your Trip
We are still quite a few months from next year’s Rocky Point Rally. However, you should start planning your trip now. That way, you won’t get in a rush to do so when it is time to travel.
Indeed, there are quite a few steps you should take well ahead of time. They might require a processing schedule, and you don’t want to get caught in a bind in the run-up to the trip. Keep these tips in mind.
- Verify that you have a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration. Mexico will recognize your American license and registration as valid.
- You generally will not need a tourist visa to travel to Mexico. However, if you plan to remain in the country for an extended time, or to work or study, you might need one.
- If you plan to travel to certain parts of Mexico, you might need a vehicle import permit. If you plan to travel only to and within Rocky Point, you won’t need the permit. Yet, if you plan to travel further within or outside the state of Sonora, you might need the documentation. You can obtain the permit by visiting Mexico’s Banjercito government agency.
- Keep an eye on any travel warnings and restrictions as issued by the U.S. Department of State.
Last, but not least, you’ll want to enroll in a Mexican auto insurance policy for your motorcycle. Do not attempt to drive across the border without this coverage in place.
Mexican Auto Insurance
All American drivers and bikers in Mexico must have Mexican auto insurance. Mexican law does not recognize American auto policies. Again, this is because Mexican and American laws and insurance markets, differ. All drivers in the country have to carry a policy.
Mexican auto insurance will look a lot like your U.S. coverage. Given that you will likely face quite a few accident risks during your travel, you should consider it critical to get the correct types of protection. By working with one of our agents, you can obtain:
- Physical damage protection: Covers losses from wrecks and other hazards like fires, weather.
- Theft insurance: If your bike gets stolen, this coverage can help you recover or replace it.
- Liability insurance: If you are at-fault in an accident, and cause harm to someone else, this coverage can help you pay for their repairs.
- Medical insurance: If you get hurt in a wreck, coverage can help supplement your medical bills.
- Return travel expenses: In case you need to return to the U.S. after a wreck, this coverage might help with emergency expenses, like hotels, airfare or rental cars.
- Roadside assistance: If you get stranded on the side of the road, this coverage can help you receive help.
- Legal assistance: At times, the police might detain you until they determine fault in an accident. Coverage might help you obtain counsel, bail and other assistance in such a situation.
You will find that your policy comes backed by reputable, top-rated Mexican insurance providers. It will help you at those times where you may think you have nowhere else to turn. That way, you’ll be better able to enjoy you time in Rocky Point.
Also Read: Your Travel Security List for a Road Trip to Mexico