Rules of the Road in Puerto Vallarta

Some folks simply cannot live without their car – or at least they think they can’t. There is no shame in this, and it does present some interesting learning opportunities for those car lovers who plan a road trip that takes them far from home. If you are someone who enjoys a close personal relationship with a vehicle, and you’re planning to drive your own to your Puerto Vallarta vacation villa rental, you might want to brush up on the rules of the road in the state of Jalisco.

Pre-travel checklist
First, make certain you have the appropriate documents, and always carry them with you. That means you need a driving license; the one you use to drive in your home town will work. Also, make certain you’re carrying copies of your vehicle registration and immigration papers (some people recommend you don’t carry your original registration documents with you in the vehicle).

Before you leave home, go over your vehicle to make certain it’s in proper running order. You need mirrors and you must be able to see with them. You need a windshield/windscreen and you must be able to see through it. You need current plates and registration. This stuff isn’t rocket science, it’s simple common sense.

Let common sense be your guide
It probably goes without saying, but it’s best to avoid certain behaviors when driving in Mexico. First of all, local authorities take a dim view of drivers who hit the streets while impaired. If you’ve enjoyed an adult beverage or two, you’ll want to take a taxi back to your Puerto Vallarta vacation villa rental or hand the keys over to the designated driver in your group.

Be environmentally conscious while you drive in Mexico. If you take your vehicle to the city of Guadalajara for a day trip, you need to be aware of emissions – if your car is smoking like a chimney, you might meet a police officer. Take along a sack or bag to collect your trash; littering the roadway is bad manners and it’s unlawful. And watch where you park.

It’s important that you purchase Mexican auto insurance; although it’s not mandatory in every state, it’s the rules in Jalisco. It’s just a good idea no matter where you travel, because your carrier at home might not cover you when you’re driving abroad. Fines for infractions are assessed in terms of a day’s wages, and you’ll be asked to pay immediately.