Mexico has been making huge investments in building and improving its road infrastructure over the last few years. Its intensive network of highways is getting better with time. For the uninitiated, if you see the sign "Cuota", you know it is a Mexico toll road. Or, if it reads "Libre," it means free with no toll. Generally speaking, most of the Mexico roads are in good condition, although you may find a few potholes here and there. Mention must be made of the road to Rocky Point (Puerto Peñasco), which has large shoulders and no potholes. All the speed limits are in kilometers; however, the safest policy on your vehicle's speed is to "go with the flow of traffic".

The conditions of the highways have little to complain about. Of course there are occasional potholes and the disturbing sights of animals crossing the road. You are, however, certain to encounter a variety of dramatic turns (some of them very sharp) and the same goes with the dips in the road. If you are traveling on a toll highway, the conditions are likely to be slick and smooth sailing. Apart from the road to Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco), some regular highways such as Hermosillo and even Ensanada are quite good.

While driving, you should watch the low areas during flash floods. It will be wise for you to choose designated drivers for each part of your journey if you are traveling a long distance. Remember that designated driver would want to get adequate sleep and food. So take some breaks as staying alert is extremely important while driving anywhere, and especially in Mexico. Slow down to a crawl as soon as it begins to rain. Freshly wet roads are hazardous because of the formation of a lubricant when pil and road dust get mixed up with each other. It is sensible to wait till this mixture washes away, because driving is not safe in such conditions. If there is a sudden rain, it is better to stop altogether, or go extremely slow, until conditions get better.

Before embarking on your journey, it is better to learn about your route from an auto club, guidebook, or a Mexican government tourist office. Some routes are known for their heavy truck and bus traffic, others have poor or almost non-existent shoulders, and many have animals on the loose. What should be of further concern is that some of the relatively new roads have very few restaurants, motels, gas stations, or auto repair shops. A prior knowledge of these conditions might not solve all your problems, but will get you ready with the knowledge of what to expect. Always remember to secure quality Auto insurance for Mexico before driving your car there.

If you have to drive at night, drive carefully as you will often encounters farm animals in the road or slow moving vehicles without taillights. Driving Mexico during the night is more dangerous, with three times the fatality rate than during daylight. As it is difficult to spot objects on the road (in abundance in Mexico) at night, night driving becomes even more difficult. So drive slowly, make sure you are not fatigued, and stay alert. Better late than never.


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