What’s the Napoleonic Code? Mexico’s law is based on Napoleonic Code where guilt is assumed over innocence. If you ever travel to Mexico and plan on driving there, it’s something you need to know about, specifically, how Mexico and the Napoleonic code affect you if you’re in an auto accident in Mexico. Unlike the US, where we have “no fault” rules, auto accidents are considered to be civil and criminal offenses in Mexico. Even for a MINOR accident, you will need to pay for damages, prove you have insurance, and report claims immediately - or risk being sent to jail!

Did you know that insurance from the USA and Canada will NOT be recognized in Mexico? Never fear! You can buy a policy online for Mexican auto insurance that will give you the coverage you need, specifically for your trip south of the border. Mexico isn’t like the states - and you don’t want to run the risk of being caught without insurance!

I didn’t even realize that you needed special auto insurance to drive in Mexico. I guess we’re lucky we’ve never attempted it. We walked over a bridge once from El Paso and we’ve cruised to Mexico several times, but we’ve never attempted driving.