Cities like Puerto Peñasco, Rosarito Beach, Chihuahua, Tijuana, Monterrey…even Cabo San Lucas draw vacationers worldwide. There are lots of bars, clubs, and events where the alcohol flows quite freely, and Americans make regular fools of themselves. But here’s a tip for you. Mexico’s drinking and driving laws–and how drinking can affect–and negate–your Mexican car insurance are a matter of life and death.
Driving Drunk Is a Criminal OffenseÂ
Drunk 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 you are driving under the influence of alcohol, they can pull you over. At that point, they can administer a breathalyzer test. Drunk driving is a severe offense in Mexico. You may even be denied entry to Mexico if you have a drunk driving conviction.
Driving Drunk Can Negate Your Mexican Auto InsuranceÂ
According to our friends at Mexico Insurance Services, the leader in Mexican car insurance since 1956, the language of the tourist auto insurance policies gives all the companies an out if you are breaking any laws. So, aside from the fact you put your life and others at risk, your financial well-being can also be at risk in Mexico if you are involved in an accident while doing anything illegal (including driving with beer on your breath).
Drinking and Driving Laws in Mexico – Dont do it.
If you plan to do your fair share of partying in beautiful Mexico, be sure that you park your vehicle and leave it alone. Please don’t use it if you are drinking. If you’re in one of Mexico’s popular tourist towns, stay with your group, take taxis, ubers, didi, etc. You also 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 all sorts of crime. Â
You can have a great time in Mexico, enjoying its famous tequila, celebrated beers, and upscale wines. Just don’t get behind the wheel of a car when partying. It’s not worth it.
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Do you have listings of AA meetings in Mexico?