Tips for Driving yourself to Mexico:

• NOTICE:  first and foremost, we would much rather see you use the shuttle than trying to do this on your own. It's safer, more reliable, and has many benefits....but mostly ~ it's just safer.

• BORDER CROSSING: Do not try to cross the border at night (after dark) or try to find the hospital in the dark.  Just stay on the US side of the border if you arrive late and are driving yourself...and get up early and drive over the next morning. The border opens at 6 am.

• INSURANCE:  You MUST get Mexico insurance for driving your personal vehicle (and permission + insurance from your rental agency if you rent). This is the law, and not doing so could result in confiscation of your rental or personal car; the rental company can make you pay for the car in full if there is an accident or theft.  Never try to take a rental car across the border without permission, and would be the equivalent of stealing a car if they do not allow it. So please do all your research and make sure you have the proper paperwork.  Click here for  Mexico Auto Insurance details.  Mexico insurance is necessary even if you have coverage on your own policy.

• VEHICLE: even if your insurance company says they cover you into Mexico, this does NOT mean that your particular insurance will be accepted in Mexico, so you still need to get the additional Mexico insurance.  It costs about $30 per day while you are in Mexico, but if you were in a wreck and didn't have it, you'd be expected to pay all damages immediately or they could take your vehicle. The chances of being in a wreck are higher than normal, the driving in Mexico is aggressive. If you haven't driven there and aren't familiar with it....an accident could easily happen. Yes, we have had patients get into wrecks before while driving themselves.

• REGISTRATION:  Make sure whoever's name is on the registration of your personal vehicle....or the rental agreement of a rental car.....is the same person who is DRIVING the vehicle at all times. This means it should not be in the patient's name, because you are not able to drive after surgery.

• MAPS: Use the instructions, maps, travel tips, etc on this page to download and print (for personal use only)

• CONTACTS: Be sure to take Dr. Levi and Marcos' cell numbers, just in case you need them. Also, please know that once you cross the border, or very shortly after, your cell phone will lose service, even if you have international service - it will not work because there are no towers in the area.  A satellite phone should work. 

• SPEED LIMIT: Do the speed limit. Remember, the speed limits change to kilometers so adjust your speed accordingly.

• STOP SIGNS: Alto means stop. but it does not actually mean that everyone 'will' stop. Never cross an intersection (with or without signs) without stopping first to check for oncoming traffic unless you want to be in a fender bender!

• OTHER: Beware of large potholes and fast drivers once you get off the main highway. The townsfolk are extremely wonderful but they do have different driving styles.