Anonymous - 3-19-2005 at 11:56 PM
http://www.kfmb.com/stories/story.7862.html
03-18-05
San Diego is always a top destination for Spring Break. One of the reasons why is our beaches. Some tourists stop here before they head south of the
border.
From college students to families, thousands of people will spend Spring Break in Baja, California. Most will bypass Tijuana and head south on the
toll road to the many beach resorts. There's miles and miles of available beachfront property, and always plenty of good food to eat.
But have tourists prepared for their visit to a foreign country? Would you know what to do or who to call in case of an emergency?
Nick, like most American tourists, wouldn't have a clue what to do in an emergency, but the Mexican government has made it simple. All you have to do
is remember three numbers: 0, 7, 8.
"It's important because they get a link directly to the secretary of tourism," said Sergio Abril, general manager of Baja Care. "If it's not a medical
issue, they'll get the advice they need."
078, the Tourist Assistance Hotline, is the equivalent of our 911. It's staffed 24 hours a day and everyone speaks English.
"I haven't seen anything about tourist information, any brochures about anything," Nick, a college student, said.
Nick made a smart move before crossing the border.
"We did get some insurance before we crossed the border," he said.
You can get into a lot of trouble driving in Mexico without Mexican car insurance, and if you get a ticket?
"I heard you give a cop some money and you don't get a ticket," Nick said.
Not a good idea. Ask for a written citation and when in doubt, call 078. It's a violation of Mexican law to use a cell phone while driving. Seat belt
laws are enforced, too.
One thing many tourists worry about is getting into a car accident in Mexico. If someone is hurt, medical help will be dispatched. Baja Care will
transport patients to the border, and even arrange for an ambulance to meet them at the border.
However, under Mexican law, the person believed liable won't be released until he or she goes before the state's district attorney.
If you follow the laws, you should have a safe, enjoyable trip to Mexico.