BajaNomad

Mexican car insurance

loretomike - 10-23-2009 at 05:43 AM

hi all. this is my first time posting, although my wife, julie has posted numerous times in the past.

we have decided to change companies for our mexican car insurance. we currently have aig thru an agent in TJ. i want to change to a company that allows everything to be completed on-line.

I've seen the Bajabound.com website. any input about them, or the companies they represent? how about any other on-line mexican auto insurance. thanks.

woody with a view - 10-23-2009 at 06:11 AM

we switched from lewis and lewis to bajabound because there is always someone on the other end of the line. L and L seemed to have business "hours" and that probably wouldn't coincide with an accident. just peace of mind in the event......

plus, they support this site so why not support them?

shari - 10-23-2009 at 06:20 AM

Nice to see you posting Mike...look forward to more of your contributions in the future.
Many of our clients have switched to Bajabound for the same reason Woody did and I have never heard anything but good feedback...they are attentive and provide excellent service....hope you never need it!

David K - 10-23-2009 at 07:18 AM

Geoff and company at BajaBound.com are good people and support Baja Nomad... Geoff is a Nomad with regular contributions and also has a message board at bajabound.com. I have used BajaBound many times for daily policies in the past, before I was covered by an annual policy.

Just so we don't look like were're playing favorites, many Nomads also have annual policies through Discover Baja Travel Club run by Hugh & Carol Kramer in San Diego. Requires membership ($39/ year) which provides many discounts in Baja and at their Baja book and map store (club office). I use Discover Baja for annual policies.

Either way, you should be in good hands!

monoloco - 10-23-2009 at 08:37 AM

We obtained insurance through Costco this year $177 vs. $377 through Discover Baja

Woooosh - 10-23-2009 at 08:40 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
We obtained insurance through Costco this year $177 vs. $377 through Discover Baja


CostCo offers stand alone Mexican car insurance policies? Any more info on that please?

David K - 10-23-2009 at 08:45 AM

Yah, news to me to... Costco sells Mexican auto insurance? Where/ How... what company in Mexico do they use?

monoloco - 10-23-2009 at 08:52 AM

We purchased a full coverage policy with BWMIS Mexico Insurance Services thru Costco for $174.44 for 365 days. $12000 collision (500 deductible) $12000 fire & total theft(1000 deductible) $100,000 3&4th party liability, $4000 per person medical expenses, legal assistance, travel assistance.

monoloco - 10-23-2009 at 08:54 AM

I forgot to mention that this particular policy is only for Baja.

monoloco - 10-23-2009 at 08:56 AM

You can do it all online at costco.com

David K - 10-23-2009 at 08:57 AM

Mine is for Northwestern Mexico (several states besides Baja) and was about $250 for a $25,000 vehicle, full coverage, legal aid, repairs can be made in the U.S... (Discover Baja/ Genowith)

bajajazz - 10-23-2009 at 10:31 AM

I am in the process of acquiring a VW Westfail'ya with Mexican plates that harmonize with my new Mexican drivers license, and need longterm insurance for the Baja and short term insurance for the U.S. Can anyone point me in the best direction to get both policies handled?

Woooosh - 10-23-2009 at 11:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
You can do it all online at costco.com


This is the same Bonita (San Diego) broker I have used in the past (BWIA?). Don't know how they made the CostCo connection- but good for them.

Looking at the COstCo link- You do still need to have US car insurance and it's for US registered/plated/insured cars only from what I can tell.

This company has always had on-line policis. Maybe the CostCo route offers a discount though.

Good info- thanks.

DENNIS - 10-23-2009 at 12:44 PM

I'm paying 450 dollars per year down here, full coverage on my Jeep. Maybe I'll look at Costco.
Anybody have a link to the insurance site?

Never mind. I found it. Got a quick quote for the same thing I'm buying here, same company and it doesn't look like I'm saving much. I'll have to get into it with a little more detail.

[Edited on 10-23-2009 by DENNIS]

loretomike - 10-23-2009 at 02:12 PM

thanks for all the input. i will do some research and then decide. your assistance is well appreciated

Iflyfish - 10-23-2009 at 02:51 PM

monoloco

Thanks for the info.

Iflyfish

Kell-Baja - 10-23-2009 at 03:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
We purchased a full coverage policy with BWMIS Mexico Insurance Services thru Costco for $174.44 for 365 days. $12000 collision (500 deductible) $12000 fire & total theft(1000 deductible) $100,000 3&4th party liability, $4000 per person medical expenses, legal assistance, travel assistance.



Sounds like a great deal!

woody with a view - 10-23-2009 at 06:05 PM

sounds like monoloco has found a gem!

bajabound is way more $ but that peace of mind is worth SOMETHING, at least until feb when this policy runs out.....

awaiting further info....

taxcutter - 10-23-2009 at 11:31 PM

Just some North Road Auto Insurance Thoughts...

The State of California, thru it's Insurance Department, has low cost, short and long term policies.
But of course, one must jump thru the hoops.
Translation, one must be in good terms with the DMV.

In Baja, of course one must have Auto insurance. But it comes down to the Claims Adjuster.

The Claims Adjuster gets you out of the jam in Baja.

So, no matter how much money you spend on your Insurance policy, does your Insurance Agent, your policy, have the means and power, to get you representation. The Claims Adjuster.

And of course, when one is in the middle of somewhere....

In a way, most Claim Aduster's live in major towns. And this can translate into major delays if one is in the middle of somewhere. But from my experience, every Insurance Adjuster has a heart of gold. Once they find you.

But then again, I am bias. As a kid, my dad took me to Baja, and he went to one Baja Insurance guy. And back in Dad's day, Baja Insurance was not cheap and was a hassle.

And of course, I go to the same place for my Baja Auto Insurance. But now, I go to the son! The son took over the biz. And thankfully, prices are now more reasonable. And they are On-line.

But more importantly, I feel blessed with the knowledge that a Insurance Claims Adjuster will come and get me.

I go with Lewis and Lewis.

Nevertheless, it's about the Insurance Adjuster. And how fast can this Adjuster person get to you and your claim.

Safe travels....

shari - 10-24-2009 at 06:10 AM

I got my mexican auto insurance through my bank...super easy.

tax cutter is right. For example the adjuster in these parts lives in GN and she handles all gringo claims in the area from lots of different companies and is a very busy lady....but efficient.

Tano - 10-24-2009 at 09:45 AM

Anybody got car insurance for Mexico through AAA?

durrelllrobert - 10-24-2009 at 10:04 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS

Anybody have a link to the insurance site?

Never mind. I found it. [Edited on 10-23-2009 by DENNIS]

where did you find it? the only auto insurance I find is for US:?:

It Takes Three

Bajahowodd - 10-24-2009 at 12:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by taxcutter
Just some North Road Auto Insurance Thoughts...

The State of California, thru it's Insurance Department, has low cost, short and long term policies.
But of course, one must jump thru the hoops.
Translation, one must be in good terms with the DMV.

In Baja, of course one must have Auto insurance. But it comes down to the Claims Adjuster.

The Claims Adjuster gets you out of the jam in Baja.

So, no matter how much money you spend on your Insurance policy, does your Insurance Agent, your policy, have the means and power, to get you representation. The Claims Adjuster.

And of course, when one is in the middle of somewhere....

In a way, most Claim Aduster's live in major towns. And this can translate into major delays if one is in the middle of somewhere. But from my experience, every Insurance Adjuster has a heart of gold. Once they find you.

But then again, I am bias. As a kid, my dad took me to Baja, and he went to one Baja Insurance guy. And back in Dad's day, Baja Insurance was not cheap and was a hassle.

And of course, I go to the same place for my Baja Auto Insurance. But now, I go to the son! The son took over the biz. And thankfully, prices are now more reasonable. And they are On-line.

But more importantly, I feel blessed with the knowledge that a Insurance Claims Adjuster will come and get me.

I go with Lewis and Lewis.

Nevertheless, it's about the Insurance Adjuster. And how fast can this Adjuster person get to you and your claim.

Safe travels....




It's kinda like the trinity. Whether you go online or to an office, you are purchasing insurance through a broker, who receives commission on the premium you pay. I'm guessing that with the somewhat limited number of insurance carriers doing business in Mexico, Most brokers will likely offer coverage with the same insurance companies. If you have an accident, that's when the adjuster gets involved. With the exception of major cities, it is more than likely that the same adjuster will represent more than one company.

As was mentioned earlier, since one calls their broker if they have an accident, it is money in the bank if you can get easy access to them. The only part of the process I am not familiar with, is whether the broker has the authority from the insurance company to assign the adjuster, or whether that authority is reserved by the insurance company.

Perhaps BajaGeoff can enlighten me.

daveB - 10-25-2009 at 01:03 AM

With Lewis and Lewis, the number to call when you are involved in an accident is a Tjauna number, not a Santa Monica number.

The claim reporting information has no recomendation to call Lewis and Lewis. You deal with the Mexican company, Qualitas, directly or through the assigned adjuster.

Stinking insurance

wessongroup - 10-25-2009 at 08:19 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
We obtained insurance through Costco this year $177 vs. $377 through Discover Baja


Thank you very much... "spend a nickel, spend a dime, spending money is a crime"

Old Navajo saying:):)

noproblemo2 - 10-25-2009 at 08:29 AM

So far we use Vagubundos, but as everyone else, always looking for less $$$$.

BajaWarrior - 10-25-2009 at 08:43 AM

Discover Baja for us. Have home owners insurance with them as well. I have used them for over 15 years now. Of course, I have never had to submit a claim (knocking on wood right now). Full coverage for '06 Super Duty Crew Cab and triple axle flat bed trailer just above $300 annual.

I have read a few very positive post here on Nomads regarding claims with DB

[Edited on 10-25-2009 by BajaWarrior]

woody with a view - 10-25-2009 at 08:48 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by daveB
With Lewis and Lewis, the number to call when you are involved in an accident is a Tjauna number, not a Santa Monica number.

The claim reporting information has no recomendation to call Lewis and Lewis. You deal with the Mexican company, Qualitas, directly or through the assigned adjuster.


obviously. but in the EVENT i need to use my insurance, it's good to know that Geoff's people are answering the phone if i have any questions while dealing with the cops/adjusters/ etc..... ad nauseum!

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 09:22 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by durrelllrobert
where did you find it? the only auto insurance I find is for US:?:


https://www.bonitawest.com/Costco/frm_Home.asp

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 09:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by BajaWarrior

I have read a few very positive post here on Nomads regarding claims with DB



That's what this thread would benefit from, reports from people who have had to use their policy. That's what it's all about when you get past the price.

Bajahowodd - 10-25-2009 at 12:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajajazz
I am in the process of acquiring a VW Westfail'ya with Mexican plates that harmonize with my new Mexican drivers license, and need longterm insurance for the Baja and short term insurance for the U.S. Can anyone point me in the best direction to get both policies handled?



I note many comments by Nomads regarding BajaBound and Lewis & Lewis. while I have done business with BajaBound, I've also bought through Adventure (mexadventure.com) Adventure has been doing this for 9 years. And they have more carriers to choose from. All three have easy to use websites.

However, all three are California licensed surplus lines brokers who can only write insurance for vehicles bearing US or Canadian plates. It's a wrinkle in the Mexican insurance law. I believe you will have to seek out a Mexico-based broker to buy insurance for your Mexican plated vehicle.

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 12:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Bajahowodd
I believe you will have to seek out a Mexico-based broker to buy insurance for your Mexican plated vehicle.


That's correct and you may not like the price. For the locals, insurance is expensive. That's why manymanymany of them don't have it and "Hit 'n Run" is so popular.

Bajahowodd - 10-25-2009 at 01:27 PM

I find that a mite curious, Dennis. The same Mexico-based insurers. The general idea is that underwriting experience determines the rates charged. So, setting aside any thought that Mexican insurance companies gouge Mexicans because they can, are Mexicans, on the whole, poorer drivers than those from Canada and the US?

woody with a view - 10-25-2009 at 01:42 PM

i drive 450 miles/week to/from work. am i a better driver than anyone else? i have had 1 claim in 30 years....

Bajahowodd - 10-25-2009 at 01:52 PM

Enviable experience. However, annual mileage driven has always been one of the factors considered by insurers when setting rates. The idea is simple, the more miles you drive, the more likely you'll have an accident. That, of course takes into consideration that no matter how good a driver you are, there's always the other guy who'll do something stupid.

[Edited on 10-25-2009 by Bajahowodd]

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 02:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Bajahowodd
I find that a mite curious, Dennis. The same Mexico-based insurers. The general idea is that underwriting experience determines the rates charged. So, setting aside any thought that Mexican insurance companies gouge Mexicans because they can, are Mexicans, on the whole, poorer drivers than those from Canada and the US?


Full coverage as well as drivers license insurance are available to tourists and FM holders for a fraction of the cost to locals if a US address is used and that address has to be kept in mind in the event of a traffic problem.
To insure my new Jeep if it had Mexico plates and I had a Baja License would probably be three times as much as what I pay.
I don't know where the Mexican drivers as a whole would fall on a scale of world wide drivers but, it's my guess they won't be near the top. I'm allowed to surmise that since in my fifty years of driving, I've never been in a wreck.

Bajahowodd - 10-25-2009 at 02:21 PM

3X? I'm guessing that it may be more than bad drivers. I recall that before California required proof of insurance for registration purposes, there were considerably more uninsured drivers around and about. The simple economics of the situation was that those who had insurance were subsidizing those who did not. And I'm fairly certain that a similar mandatory insurance requirement in Mexico would not be very popular given the economics of things.

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 02:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Bajahowodd
And I'm fairly certain that a similar mandatory insurance requirement in Mexico would not be very popular given the economics of things.


Largely, it would only result in a pay raise for the police. There are still a lot of people on the roads who couldn't afford insurance but, can't stop driving. It's like Los Angeles. The larger the city gets, the farther people have to travel to work and they can hardly afford gas.

Dave - 10-25-2009 at 02:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS

That's correct and you may not like the price. For the locals, insurance is expensive. That's why manymanymany of them don't have it and "Hit 'n Run" is so popular.


I drive a Mexican plated car and have a Mexican driver's license. Been stopped several times and never been asked for insurance verification. Don't think it's a requirement...

Unless you're involved in an accident. :rolleyes:

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 03:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Dave
Don't think it's a requirement...

Unless you're involved in an accident. :rolleyes:


Exactly.

daveB - 10-25-2009 at 04:22 PM

Hit and run is an offence so far down on the scale of importance in Mexico, it commands a fine of just a few pesos. I once heard the number and it was astoundingly low. Law inforcement may not go looking for who hit you.

DENNIS - 10-25-2009 at 05:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by daveB
Law inforcement may not go looking for who hit you.



That's not the only thing they may not do. :lol::lol: