While driving in Mexico, you will come across several military checkpoints that have been set up along certain roads and highways. As you near the post, you are sure to find a number of smart young men dressed in army green uniforms carrying guns. Don't get nervous! They are not issuing Mexican traffic tickets! All they are there for is to find drugs and contraband. Some checkpoints also display a sign posted by the Mexican government for tourists so that they feel more secure about the process. In any case, make it a point to slow down or stop if you are asked to do so. They may ask you a few questions (most probably not in English) to find out where you are going and where you have been. They may also want to carry out a routine check of your vehicle. Never go for a confrontation and cooperate with them for a smooth exit.

If you have a Mexican auto insurance policy, getting a Mexican traffic ticket there should not be a nightmare. Your provider, in that case, will provide you with both bail bond insurance and accident insurance. If you meet with an accident in Mexico, let your company take care of things. One should remember that leaving the scene of an accident in Mexico will only worsen the situation. Once you are equipped with insurance, you are not likely to end up in jail until the damages are paid. But prepare to spend some time in custody if you do not have one. If you manage to get a ticket, you are supposed to take it to a bank and pay it. The sooner you do so, the less you have to pay. Make sure you know your legal rights in Mexico.

Traffic fines vary from city to city, but they are generally as follows (in US dollars): $25-$62 (running a red light), $25-$62 (not using a seat belt), $25-$62 ( using a mobile phone at the time of driving), $25-$62 (driving w/o valid license or registration), $23 and more (not giving pedestrian the right of way), $23 and more (driving in the fast lane), $42.18 and more (littering), $23 and more (double parking), $23 and more (parking in red zone), $11.55 (expired meter), $83-$125 (drinking in public), $83-$125 (speeding), and $120-$150 and detention (DUI).

Do you know where to pay the fine if you are given a ticket? If you get a ticket in Tijuana, Rosarito or Ensenada you may pay the fine at the police station or in the U.S. by mailing a check or money order to one of the following addresses: (in Tijuana) H. Ayuntamiento de Tijuana, 416 W San Ysidro Blvd Suite L No. 725, San Ysidro, CA 92143; (in Rosarito) H. Ayuntamiento de Rosarito, P.O. Box 439060, San Diego, CA 92143-9060; and (in Ensenada) Municipio de Ensenada, PMB 147 P.O. Box 189003
Coronado, CA 92178. You won't get this service if you are issued a ticket either in San Felipe, or Tecate or Mexicali. You will then have to pay your fine in person at the corresponding police station. In case you feel that you have been unfairly fined you may file an appeal with the municipal judge inside the police station.


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