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monoloco
Elite Nomad
    
Posts: 6667
Registered: 7-13-2009
Location: Pescadero BCS
Member Is Offline
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Quote: | Originally posted by monoloco
I carry a Qualitas policy through Costco, last week I hit a wounded cow in the middle of the road at 5:30AM damaging the front of my truck. I called
Qualitas and they made an appointment to send an adjuster, I met him today and he had me fill out an accident report, took a few photos and gave me a
repair order for a body shop. The adjuster was courteous and professional, the whole thing took about a half hour. He only asked to see my driver's
license and didn't ask for any immigration docs. or anything else, I can't imagine how it could have been any easier. Now it's between me and the body
shop I guess. | Update: I went to the body shop in La Paz and they are going to repair the damage and replace
my front bumper and oil cooler using all OEM parts. I have no complaints regarding the service I have received from Qualitas.
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woody with a view
PITA Nomad
     
Posts: 15939
Registered: 11-8-2004
Location: Looking at the Coronado Islands
Member Is Offline
Mood: Everchangin'
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sounds good! congrats!
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KurtG
Super Nomad
  
Posts: 1211
Registered: 1-27-2004
Location: California Central Coast
Member Is Offline
Mood: Press On Regardless!!
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Quote: | Originally posted by sharktooth
My 2 cents on buying your Mexican insurance
Buy direct from the Mexican insurance brokers such as bajabound, mexadventure.com, discover baja or other brokers whose ONLY line of business is
Mexican insurance. The direct brokers have direct access to the Mexican claims departments, and can easily assist you if a claim goes off the rails.
(some brokers are better than others)
- AVOID big box shops who sell Mexican insurance such as COSTCO, AAA, GEICO, etc...
The big box shops may have non-licensed people selling Mexican insurance who tend to know nothing about Mexican insurance. If you need claims help,
you will get lost in a labrynth of people who don't know how to help you....it can be impossible to speak to someone in charge.
(FYI - COSTCO is not a Mexican insurance broker - they have a contract with a Mexican insurance broker who provides the insurance to COSTCO)
Mexican insurance can be complicated - so cut out the middlemen and buy direct from the US brokers and businesses whose only line of business is
Mexican insurance and Mexican travel.
I must disclose that I work for Adventure Mexican Insurance - I am not posting this as an advertisement for our company. I have just heard complaints
from many customers who used these big box shops in the past, and they received horrible claims service.
Some people feel safer buying Mexican insurance through BIG names like COSTCO and AAA - but my experience is that the big name stores don't have the
time or ability to help you when you have a complicated claim that that needs immediate attention.
Hope that helps |
Can you explain the difference between buying from your brokerage and buying from Bonita West. Sounds to me like Bonita West meets your definition of
a "broker." The only difference I see is that I get a discount from Bonita West for being a Costco member. You point out that Costco is not selling
the insurance and then make it sound like customers are placing their claims through Costco which is not the case. You mention AAA and I have known
people who had trouble with a claim there but they didn't work with the Mexican adjuster but waited to get back to the US thinking that they could
place the claim through AAA which, of course, is not the case. I don't expect any help from Costco in the claim department, I'm aware of from whom I
am buying the insurance and that a claim needs to be done in Mexico with Qualitas.
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Udo
Elite Nomad
    
Posts: 6364
Registered: 4-26-2008
Location: Black Hills, SD/Ensenada/San Felipe
Member Is Offline
Mood: TEQUILA!
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Talk about a hijack!
someone highlighted all the "INSURANCE" words within this thread.
Udo
Youth is wasted on the young!
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David K
Honored Nomad
       
Posts: 65285
Registered: 8-30-2002
Location: San Diego County
Member Is Offline
Mood: Have Baja Fever
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bump for oldjack
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ArvadaGeorge
Nomad

Posts: 358
Registered: 9-2-2003
Member Is Offline
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Quote: | So what happened? Did they get s reasonable settlement ?
]Originally posted by Udo
I just found this on a recent post on the RV in Mexico blog.
This is highly important, and one gets what one pays for,
Buyer beware!
To: From: RVjmelton@aol.com
Date sent: Sun, 25 Apr 2010 00:29:13 -0400
Subject: Re: My accident update from Joy Melton Sorry, sent wrong format
Send reply to:
March 24, 2010: It was a beautiful day. Sunny and cool for driving. I was with Ed and Jan
Biller, and Marge Nielsen and Charlie Miller. We had been in Mexico since early February for
the Mexican Connection Rally (Ed and Jan were Wagonmasters) and then decided to travel
south. We had been as far as Mazatlan, and were slowly heading back home. Leaving Las
Glorias, we were headed to Huatabampito to check out the beach.
We turned off Hwy 15 before Novajoa and headed to the beach on the typical two lane
secondary road. It was about noon and the kids were walking home from school or getting off
the bus. I enjoyed the waving greetings as we went by. The other thing I noted and planned
to mention to the gang when we arrived was that this road was the first that reminded me of
the Baja: curved, narrow, and few shoulders. There were the memorials along the road, but
again, more than usual, as in the Baja.
It was a slow, easy drive on flat road, and I was just coming out of a curve (I was third in line)
when I saw the black car pull out to pass. He was swerving and I knew immediately he was
out of control. I knew instantly he was going to hit the car he was passing or me. There was
no way to tell which way he would go. Within a moment, I found out. I had already decided to
hold on to keep my rig upright. I was going too slow to hit the gas to get around him. He hit
me head-on on the driverīs side. The impact was incredible. Apparently, the front tires blew
out and the engine dropped off. I did not lose consciousness, but it was like a whirlwind
inside the coach. When I came to a stop about 30' down the road, I turned to the right and
both dogs were up front with me. Sparkle was hysterical, but Tag thought it was a party. I was
talking to the dogs when I heard Charlie on the CB say, "Joyīs off the road. Iīm going back."
At that moment, I knew I was OK. It was wonderful to hear.
Ed and Jan reached me first and I was yelling for them to get the dogs out. I smelled gas and
worried about an explosion. I then checked myself out. I knew I was bleeding from the face.
We think I hit the steering wheel as it was broken, or the dash. It was a small wound just over
the left eye at the bridge of my nose. My neck was fine, but when I turned, my low back was
painful. Didnīt seem like more than muscular pain.
Jan got the dogs out and Marge took them to her rig. Then, I wanted out. Thank goodness
for driverīs doors. I was able to open it and kept asking to be taken out, but people were
reluctant because of not wanting to injure me more. The ambulance arrived within a few
minutes as Ed had borrowed a phone and reached the officials. Finally, a man whom I later
found out was Marco, pulled me out from the back by my legs, and it was uncomfortable, but
not really bad.
I was taken by ambulance to Santa Fe Hospital in Huatabampo, Sonora where I was kept
under police guard initially. ( I will only mention this once. I was told there were deaths and
sadly, the three people in the car lost their lives.) I believe my Winnebago Adventurer saved
my life. The "cage" is so well built, it withstood a tremendous force and gave way, but also
kept me safe.
I was taken by ambulance to another facility for x-rays and then to Novojoa the next day by
ambulance for CT-scan of the neck and back. The neck was fine, but I was told at that time I
had a 10% compression fracture of the lumbar spine at L-1. I was taken back to Santa Fe
Hospital and the doctor said I would need bed rest and after a week I should be able to
tolerate riding in a car to the US. I was allowed to stay at the RV Park / Motel that we were
headed to at the time of the accident. The owner, Enrique, was at the hospital within minutes
of me, and told me not to worry, he had received permission to have the MH and car towed to
his property and he would protect it. (He was just one of the many angels who helped me
during this experience. I have used first names only so as not to infringe on anyoneīs privacy,
except for my four Escapee friends without whose help I could have had a totally different
experience following the accident.)
Within 30 minutes of arrival at the hospital, Nyra and Ramon arrived. She walked right in and
said she had heard that an American woman had an accident and she wanted to know what
she could do to help as she spoke both Spanish and English. She and her husband had
moved to Hautabampo from California seven months previously as she wanted a slower life
for her family. She was incredible. She became our interpreter when dealing with the officials,
and the District Attorney asked her to interpret for all of us when they took our statements.
Ramon later removed all my personal items from the MH and took four truck loads to store at
their home as they have a casita that is not being used. This was all done under the expert
guidance from Marge and Jan, who directed him on what to keep or let go (particularly dishes
which were almost all broken, for the most part). I, of course, being optimistic and way off
base, told them Iīd be back in a month to pick up things. (Weīll get to that point later.)
Lynn is a retired RN from Canada who came over daily to give me my pain shots and other
meds, and when we finally could get me up, put on her swimsuit, jumped in the shower with
me and gave me a shower. I first met her husband Gary when we couldnīt get me off the
toilet early on, so Lynn went to get him. He walked into the bathroom, said Hi, picked me up,
got me to the bed, and walked out. At least I think he said, Hi.
I received a walker from another Canadian couple (Garry and Sue) who heard about the
accident and offered it to me. Later, they said to pass it on when I no longer need it. It is here
by me right now and was key to getting me up on my own.
Mario was a local who was a friend of the owner of the ambulance company, and he made
arrangements for the transfers they did, for the cost of gas and tips for the drivers.
Jose, the District Attorney, turned out to be a caring, wonderful, fair and impartial man.
Because I could not get to the court house, he arranged the final hearing at the motel. He
was courteous and kind. He was particularly taken by Tag and told everyone about my "street
dog."
The maids at the motel were very helpful on a daily basis. I had a room with a patio that was
blocked off so the dogs could go in and out.
First, last and always were my four friends I was traveling with. From the moment of hearing
Charlieīs voice on the CB, I knew I was going to be OK. They handled my money, paid the
bills, got cash as I needed it, contacted every agency to check on what to do, held my hand
when I cried, and were there for me throughout the ordeal.
When it came time to get me out of Mexico once we were allowed to leave the country, a
woman from Yucca Valley who has a home in Huatabampito offered to drive me home.
Nancy was terrific in helping me and the dogs through four days on the road, including six
hours sitting at the border at Nogales. She said I was terrific, too, until my meds wore off, and
then I was a hand full.
Once I arrived in Long Beach, I was seen by an excellent orthopaedist. I should know. I
worked for him for over 30 years. Unfortunately, x-rays showed a 70% compression fracture,
with a much longer healing time than I had anticipated.
Since then, I was in a rehabilitation facility for 10 days. Sparkle and I are now reunited in an
assisted living apartment in downtown Long Beach. Ken and Sue Pace came up and helped
us move in; Sue, of course, making lists and getting all the essentials we needed to start.
(They are now on their way to Italy.) The facility is across the street from my motherīs condo
where Tag is staying with her two small dogs. Sparkle spent a week at a vet and is down to
37 pounds. She is on a special diet and has almost as many pills as me, and is coming along
fine. Tag is still having a party. He was brought over tonight by Sparkleīs dog walker for a
short visit while Sparkle was out.
So, here is where we are now. From the beginning, we talked about what we did, what we
might have done, and what we will do in the future.
One thing is that I had my passport, both registrations for the vehicles, Mexican visa permit,
vehicle permits, insurance policies and driverīs license setting in a basket on the engine
hump. All loose. Easy to get to if I was stopped at inspections. DONīT DO THAT. On impact,
it was like a whirlwind in the rig. Ed and the others had to dig through all kinds of papers and
stuff to find everything. In the future, make a copy of things and put the originals and a set of
copies in a file and secure it where it can be easily obtained. All of those items were
requested by various agencies over and over again.
I was lucky in that I decided keep full coverage in addition to a driverīs license policy which is
liability only. Apparently, insurance is not required of Mexicans as it is of foreigners. So, at
least I had my own insurance. Now, comes the rub.
It has been one month since the injury. There was an adjuster there within a few hours of the
accident. I was also represented by an attorney at the hearing. Guess what. Neither one of
them spoke a word of English. They were reluctant to communicate with me and frankly I left
that country not knowing where I stood. A month later, I still donīt. After several calls to the
insurance agency which sold the policy on behalf of Costco, late last week I finally got a call
from the insurance company, Qualitas, and finally got an email address. We are now
corresponding, but I do not yet know if the MH will be totaled. In the opinion of those there at
the time, it cannot be fixed. It saved my life, but it cannot be put back together to do it again.
I will be posting the results of my experience with the insurance company which, so far, is a
disaster. But, Iīll refrain from more comment until I know more... in English. I will be informing
Costco that if they are going to sell insurance to Americans, it is imperative they use a
company who will be providing English speaking people to assist and represent them.
About 15 years ago, on the advice of my friend Lana, I purchased a long term care policy. I
am very lucky to have that now. After three months, it will pick up most of my needs for the
next several months. One of the smarter things I have done for myself.
I let my travel policy go because I didnīt renew. Donīt let that happen. As it turned out, I did
not require emergency high level transport, but it would have been much easier to deal with
had I had that policy. I will have it going out on the road again.
I thank all of you who have sent cards and emailed me. It means so very much. What I have
written is from my memory. My friends have another view from where they were and can offer
suggestions for all of us on the road. I gave only my view, which for many days, was flat on
my back in bed. Had it not been for the wonderful people I share my life with, it would not
have this happy ending. I am alive, I am going to be well, and I will be back on the road as
soon as possible.
Joy, Sparkle and Tag Along
117 E 8th St, #401
Long Beach, CA 90813
[Edited on 4-25-2010 by udowinkler] |
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mtgoat666
Select Nomad
     
Posts: 19932
Registered: 9-16-2006
Location: San Diego
Member Is Offline
Mood: Hot n spicy
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|
Quote: | Originally posted by Udo
I just found this on a recent post on the RV in Mexico blog.
This is highly important, and one gets what one pays for,
Buyer beware!
To: From: RVjmelton@aol.com
Date sent: Sun, 25 Apr 2010 00:29:13 -0400
Subject: Re: My accident update from Joy Melton Sorry, sent wrong format
Send reply to:
March 24, 2010: It was a beautiful day. Sunny and cool for driving. I was with Ed and Jan
Biller, and Marge Nielsen and Charlie Miller. We had been in Mexico since early February for
the Mexican Connection Rally (Ed and Jan were Wagonmasters) and then decided to travel
south. We had been as far as Mazatlan, and were slowly heading back home. Leaving Las
Glorias, we were headed to Huatabampito to check out the beach.
We turned off Hwy 15 before Novajoa and headed to the beach on the typical two lane
secondary road. It was about noon and the kids were walking home from school or getting off
the bus. I enjoyed the waving greetings as we went by. The other thing I noted and planned
to mention to the gang when we arrived was that this road was the first that reminded me of
the Baja: curved, narrow, and few shoulders. There were the memorials along the road, but
again, more than usual, as in the Baja.
It was a slow, easy drive on flat road, and I was just coming out of a curve (I was third in line)
when I saw the black car pull out to pass. He was swerving and I knew immediately he was
out of control. I knew instantly he was going to hit the car he was passing or me. There was
no way to tell which way he would go. Within a moment, I found out. I had already decided to
hold on to keep my rig upright. I was going too slow to hit the gas to get around him. He hit
me head-on on the driverīs side. The impact was incredible. Apparently, the front tires blew
out and the engine dropped off. I did not lose consciousness, but it was like a whirlwind
inside the coach. When I came to a stop about 30' down the road, I turned to the right and
both dogs were up front with me. Sparkle was hysterical, but Tag thought it was a party. I was
talking to the dogs when I heard Charlie on the CB say, "Joyīs off the road. Iīm going back."
At that moment, I knew I was OK. It was wonderful to hear.
Ed and Jan reached me first and I was yelling for them to get the dogs out. I smelled gas and
worried about an explosion. I then checked myself out. I knew I was bleeding from the face.
We think I hit the steering wheel as it was broken, or the dash. It was a small wound just over
the left eye at the bridge of my nose. My neck was fine, but when I turned, my low back was
painful. Didnīt seem like more than muscular pain.
Jan got the dogs out and Marge took them to her rig. Then, I wanted out. Thank goodness
for driverīs doors. I was able to open it and kept asking to be taken out, but people were
reluctant because of not wanting to injure me more. The ambulance arrived within a few
minutes as Ed had borrowed a phone and reached the officials. Finally, a man whom I later
found out was Marco, pulled me out from the back by my legs, and it was uncomfortable, but
not really bad.
I was taken by ambulance to Santa Fe Hospital in Huatabampo, Sonora where I was kept
under police guard initially. ( I will only mention this once. I was told there were deaths and
sadly, the three people in the car lost their lives.) I believe my Winnebago Adventurer saved
my life. The "cage" is so well built, it withstood a tremendous force and gave way, but also
kept me safe.
I was taken by ambulance to another facility for x-rays and then to Novojoa the next day by
ambulance for CT-scan of the neck and back. The neck was fine, but I was told at that time I
had a 10% compression fracture of the lumbar spine at L-1. I was taken back to Santa Fe
Hospital and the doctor said I would need bed rest and after a week I should be able to
tolerate riding in a car to the US. I was allowed to stay at the RV Park / Motel that we were
headed to at the time of the accident. The owner, Enrique, was at the hospital within minutes
of me, and told me not to worry, he had received permission to have the MH and car towed to
his property and he would protect it. (He was just one of the many angels who helped me
during this experience. I have used first names only so as not to infringe on anyoneīs privacy,
except for my four Escapee friends without whose help I could have had a totally different
experience following the accident.)
Within 30 minutes of arrival at the hospital, Nyra and Ramon arrived. She walked right in and
said she had heard that an American woman had an accident and she wanted to know what
she could do to help as she spoke both Spanish and English. She and her husband had
moved to Hautabampo from California seven months previously as she wanted a slower life
for her family. She was incredible. She became our interpreter when dealing with the officials,
and the District Attorney asked her to interpret for all of us when they took our statements.
Ramon later removed all my personal items from the MH and took four truck loads to store at
their home as they have a casita that is not being used. This was all done under the expert
guidance from Marge and Jan, who directed him on what to keep or let go (particularly dishes
which were almost all broken, for the most part). I, of course, being optimistic and way off
base, told them Iīd be back in a month to pick up things. (Weīll get to that point later.)
Lynn is a retired RN from Canada who came over daily to give me my pain shots and other
meds, and when we finally could get me up, put on her swimsuit, jumped in the shower with
me and gave me a shower. I first met her husband Gary when we couldnīt get me off the
toilet early on, so Lynn went to get him. He walked into the bathroom, said Hi, picked me up,
got me to the bed, and walked out. At least I think he said, Hi.
I received a walker from another Canadian couple (Garry and Sue) who heard about the
accident and offered it to me. Later, they said to pass it on when I no longer need it. It is here
by me right now and was key to getting me up on my own.
Mario was a local who was a friend of the owner of the ambulance company, and he made
arrangements for the transfers they did, for the cost of gas and tips for the drivers.
Jose, the District Attorney, turned out to be a caring, wonderful, fair and impartial man.
Because I could not get to the court house, he arranged the final hearing at the motel. He
was courteous and kind. He was particularly taken by Tag and told everyone about my "street
dog."
The maids at the motel were very helpful on a daily basis. I had a room with a patio that was
blocked off so the dogs could go in and out.
First, last and always were my four friends I was traveling with. From the moment of hearing
Charlieīs voice on the CB, I knew I was going to be OK. They handled my money, paid the
bills, got cash as I needed it, contacted every agency to check on what to do, held my hand
when I cried, and were there for me throughout the ordeal.
When it came time to get me out of Mexico once we were allowed to leave the country, a
woman from Yucca Valley who has a home in Huatabampito offered to drive me home.
Nancy was terrific in helping me and the dogs through four days on the road, including six
hours sitting at the border at Nogales. She said I was terrific, too, until my meds wore off, and
then I was a hand full.
Once I arrived in Long Beach, I was seen by an excellent orthopaedist. I should know. I
worked for him for over 30 years. Unfortunately, x-rays showed a 70% compression fracture,
with a much longer healing time than I had anticipated.
Since then, I was in a rehabilitation facility for 10 days. Sparkle and I are now reunited in an
assisted living apartment in downtown Long Beach. Ken and Sue Pace came up and helped
us move in; Sue, of course, making lists and getting all the essentials we needed to start.
(They are now on their way to Italy.) The facility is across the street from my motherīs condo
where Tag is staying with her two small dogs. Sparkle spent a week at a vet and is down to
37 pounds. She is on a special diet and has almost as many pills as me, and is coming along
fine. Tag is still having a party. He was brought over tonight by Sparkleīs dog walker for a
short visit while Sparkle was out.
So, here is where we are now. From the beginning, we talked about what we did, what we
might have done, and what we will do in the future.
One thing is that I had my passport, both registrations for the vehicles, Mexican visa permit,
vehicle permits, insurance policies and driverīs license setting in a basket on the engine
hump. All loose. Easy to get to if I was stopped at inspections. DONīT DO THAT. On impact,
it was like a whirlwind in the rig. Ed and the others had to dig through all kinds of papers and
stuff to find everything. In the future, make a copy of things and put the originals and a set of
copies in a file and secure it where it can be easily obtained. All of those items were
requested by various agencies over and over again.
I was lucky in that I decided keep full coverage in addition to a driverīs license policy which is
liability only. Apparently, insurance is not required of Mexicans as it is of foreigners. So, at
least I had my own insurance. Now, comes the rub.
It has been one month since the injury. There was an adjuster there within a few hours of the
accident. I was also represented by an attorney at the hearing. Guess what. Neither one of
them spoke a word of English. They were reluctant to communicate with me and frankly I left
that country not knowing where I stood. A month later, I still donīt. After several calls to the
insurance agency which sold the policy on behalf of Costco, late last week I finally got a call
from the insurance company, Qualitas, and finally got an email address. We are now
corresponding, but I do not yet know if the MH will be totaled. In the opinion of those there at
the time, it cannot be fixed. It saved my life, but it cannot be put back together to do it again.
I will be posting the results of my experience with the insurance company which, so far, is a
disaster. But, Iīll refrain from more comment until I know more... in English. I will be informing
Costco that if they are going to sell insurance to Americans, it is imperative they use a
company who will be providing English speaking people to assist and represent them.
About 15 years ago, on the advice of my friend Lana, I purchased a long term care policy. I
am very lucky to have that now. After three months, it will pick up most of my needs for the
next several months. One of the smarter things I have done for myself.
I let my travel policy go because I didnīt renew. Donīt let that happen. As it turned out, I did
not require emergency high level transport, but it would have been much easier to deal with
had I had that policy. I will have it going out on the road again.
I thank all of you who have sent cards and emailed me. It means so very much. What I have
written is from my memory. My friends have another view from where they were and can offer
suggestions for all of us on the road. I gave only my view, which for many days, was flat on
my back in bed. Had it not been for the wonderful people I share my life with, it would not
have this happy ending. I am alive, I am going to be well, and I will be back on the road as
soon as possible.
Joy, Sparkle and Tag Along
117 E 8th St, #401
Long Beach, CA 90813
[Edited on 4-25-2010 by udowinkler] |
that story is way too long to read. anybody have an abstract? people need to learn to write shorter blah, blah, blahs.
i hate long winded posts.
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BAJA.DESERT.RAT
Senior Nomad
 
Posts: 980
Registered: 11-5-2009
Location: BAJA SUR
Member Is Offline
|
|
Hola, DAMN !!!! what do my fellow nomads recommend ? i get all the stuff from vagabundos including their legal policy and i also buy celia diaz every
year and am contemplating buying a medevac type of policy this year.
what would be the consesus as far as auto and other major medical type of coverage and/or flyout coverage ?
it's always an after thought but i think it's time to think ahead and would appreciate any feedback as to what companies will do their best for us and
what to buy in advance.
even the people that go to mexico on cruises or 5 day/4 nite fishing packages are probably not aware of what to do or what to have in the way of
coverage if there is a health problem in mexico. at least, i wasn't advised at all except for " YOU'LL HAVE A GREAT TIME " but if you have a heart
attack, you're out of luck and big bucks.
i look forward to your responses,
BIEN SALUD, DA RAT
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Udo
Elite Nomad
    
Posts: 6364
Registered: 4-26-2008
Location: Black Hills, SD/Ensenada/San Felipe
Member Is Offline
Mood: TEQUILA!
|
|
I did not write the long post...I only forwarded what someone else posted.
This is still highly informative for people traveling Baja.
BTW...I buy a yearly policy with medical and evac from Discover Baja for each of the vehicles I drive to Baja. I am sure you are aware that
there are two policies available...one for all of Mexico, and one for the Northern part of Mexico
Quote: | Originally posted by mtgoat666
Quote: | Originally posted by Udo
I just found this on a recent post on the RV in Mexico blog.
This is highly important, and one gets what one pays for,
Buyer beware!
To: From: RVjmelton@aol.com
Date sent: Sun, 25 Apr 2010 00:29:13 -0400
Subject: Re: My accident update from Joy Melton Sorry, sent wrong format
Send reply to:
March 24, 2010: It was a beautiful day. Sunny and cool for driving. I was with Ed and Jan
Biller, and Marge Nielsen and Charlie Miller. We had been in Mexico since early February for
the Mexican Connection Rally (Ed and Jan were Wagonmasters) and then decided to travel
south. We had been as far as Mazatlan, and were slowly heading back home. Leaving Las
Glorias, we were headed to Huatabampito to check out the beach.
We turned off Hwy 15 before Novajoa and headed to the beach on the typical two lane
secondary road. It was about noon and the kids were walking home from school or getting off
the bus. I enjoyed the waving greetings as we went by. The other thing I noted and planned
to mention to the gang when we arrived was that this road was the first that reminded me of
the Baja: curved, narrow, and few shoulders. There were the memorials along the road, but
again, more than usual, as in the Baja.
It was a slow, easy drive on flat road, and I was just coming out of a curve (I was third in line)
when I saw the black car pull out to pass. He was swerving and I knew immediately he was
out of control. I knew instantly he was going to hit the car he was passing or me. There was
no way to tell which way he would go. Within a moment, I found out. I had already decided to
hold on to keep my rig upright. I was going too slow to hit the gas to get around him. He hit
me head-on on the driverīs side. The impact was incredible. Apparently, the front tires blew
out and the engine dropped off. I did not lose consciousness, but it was like a whirlwind
inside the coach. When I came to a stop about 30' down the road, I turned to the right and
both dogs were up front with me. Sparkle was hysterical, but Tag thought it was a party. I was
talking to the dogs when I heard Charlie on the CB say, "Joyīs off the road. Iīm going back."
At that moment, I knew I was OK. It was wonderful to hear.
Ed and Jan reached me first and I was yelling for them to get the dogs out. I smelled gas and
worried about an explosion. I then checked myself out. I knew I was bleeding from the face.
We think I hit the steering wheel as it was broken, or the dash. It was a small wound just over
the left eye at the bridge of my nose. My neck was fine, but when I turned, my low back was
painful. Didnīt seem like more than muscular pain.
Jan got the dogs out and Marge took them to her rig. Then, I wanted out. Thank goodness
for driverīs doors. I was able to open it and kept asking to be taken out, but people were
reluctant because of not wanting to injure me more. The ambulance arrived within a few
minutes as Ed had borrowed a phone and reached the officials. Finally, a man whom I later
found out was Marco, pulled me out from the back by my legs, and it was uncomfortable, but
not really bad.
I was taken by ambulance to Santa Fe Hospital in Huatabampo, Sonora where I was kept
under police guard initially. ( I will only mention this once. I was told there were deaths and
sadly, the three people in the car lost their lives.) I believe my Winnebago Adventurer saved
my life. The "cage" is so well built, it withstood a tremendous force and gave way, but also
kept me safe.
I was taken by ambulance to another facility for x-rays and then to Novojoa the next day by
ambulance for CT-scan of the neck and back. The neck was fine, but I was told at that time I
had a 10% compression fracture of the lumbar spine at L-1. I was taken back to Santa Fe
Hospital and the doctor said I would need bed rest and after a week I should be able to
tolerate riding in a car to the US. I was allowed to stay at the RV Park / Motel that we were
headed to at the time of the accident. The owner, Enrique, was at the hospital within minutes
of me, and told me not to worry, he had received permission to have the MH and car towed to
his property and he would protect it. (He was just one of the many angels who helped me
during this experience. I have used first names only so as not to infringe on anyoneīs privacy,
except for my four Escapee friends without whose help I could have had a totally different
experience following the accident.)
Within 30 minutes of arrival at the hospital, Nyra and Ramon arrived. She walked right in and
said she had heard that an American woman had an accident and she wanted to know what
she could do to help as she spoke both Spanish and English. She and her husband had
moved to Hautabampo from California seven months previously as she wanted a slower life
for her family. She was incredible. She became our interpreter when dealing with the officials,
and the District Attorney asked her to interpret for all of us when they took our statements.
Ramon later removed all my personal items from the MH and took four truck loads to store at
their home as they have a casita that is not being used. This was all done under the expert
guidance from Marge and Jan, who directed him on what to keep or let go (particularly dishes
which were almost all broken, for the most part). I, of course, being optimistic and way off
base, told them Iīd be back in a month to pick up things. (Weīll get to that point later.)
Lynn is a retired RN from Canada who came over daily to give me my pain shots and other
meds, and when we finally could get me up, put on her swimsuit, jumped in the shower with
me and gave me a shower. I first met her husband Gary when we couldnīt get me off the
toilet early on, so Lynn went to get him. He walked into the bathroom, said Hi, picked me up,
got me to the bed, and walked out. At least I think he said, Hi.
I received a walker from another Canadian couple (Garry and Sue) who heard about the
accident and offered it to me. Later, they said to pass it on when I no longer need it. It is here
by me right now and was key to getting me up on my own.
Mario was a local who was a friend of the owner of the ambulance company, and he made
arrangements for the transfers they did, for the cost of gas and tips for the drivers.
Jose, the District Attorney, turned out to be a caring, wonderful, fair and impartial man.
Because I could not get to the court house, he arranged the final hearing at the motel. He
was courteous and kind. He was particularly taken by Tag and told everyone about my "street
dog."
The maids at the motel were very helpful on a daily basis. I had a room with a patio that was
blocked off so the dogs could go in and out.
First, last and always were my four friends I was traveling with. From the moment of hearing
Charlieīs voice on the CB, I knew I was going to be OK. They handled my money, paid the
bills, got cash as I needed it, contacted every agency to check on what to do, held my hand
when I cried, and were there for me throughout the ordeal.
When it came time to get me out of Mexico once we were allowed to leave the country, a
woman from Yucca Valley who has a home in Huatabampito offered to drive me home.
Nancy was terrific in helping me and the dogs through four days on the road, including six
hours sitting at the border at Nogales. She said I was terrific, too, until my meds wore off, and
then I was a hand full.
Once I arrived in Long Beach, I was seen by an excellent orthopaedist. I should know. I
worked for him for over 30 years. Unfortunately, x-rays showed a 70% compression fracture,
with a much longer healing time than I had anticipated.
Since then, I was in a rehabilitation facility for 10 days. Sparkle and I are now reunited in an
assisted living apartment in downtown Long Beach. Ken and Sue Pace came up and helped
us move in; Sue, of course, making lists and getting all the essentials we needed to start.
(They are now on their way to Italy.) The facility is across the street from my motherīs condo
where Tag is staying with her two small dogs. Sparkle spent a week at a vet and is down to
37 pounds. She is on a special diet and has almost as many pills as me, and is coming along
fine. Tag is still having a party. He was brought over tonight by Sparkleīs dog walker for a
short visit while Sparkle was out.
So, here is where we are now. From the beginning, we talked about what we did, what we
might have done, and what we will do in the future.
One thing is that I had my passport, both registrations for the vehicles, Mexican visa permit,
vehicle permits, insurance policies and driverīs license setting in a basket on the engine
hump. All loose. Easy to get to if I was stopped at inspections. DONīT DO THAT. On impact,
it was like a whirlwind in the rig. Ed and the others had to dig through all kinds of papers and
stuff to find everything. In the future, make a copy of things and put the originals and a set of
copies in a file and secure it where it can be easily obtained. All of those items were
requested by various agencies over and over again.
I was lucky in that I decided keep full coverage in addition to a driverīs license policy which is
liability only. Apparently, insurance is not required of Mexicans as it is of foreigners. So, at
least I had my own insurance. Now, comes the rub.
It has been one month since the injury. There was an adjuster there within a few hours of the
accident. I was also represented by an attorney at the hearing. Guess what. Neither one of
them spoke a word of English. They were reluctant to communicate with me and frankly I left
that country not knowing where I stood. A month later, I still donīt. After several calls to the
insurance agency which sold the policy on behalf of Costco, late last week I finally got a call
from the insurance company, Qualitas, and finally got an email address. We are now
corresponding, but I do not yet know if the MH will be totaled. In the opinion of those there at
the time, it cannot be fixed. It saved my life, but it cannot be put back together to do it again.
I will be posting the results of my experience with the insurance company which, so far, is a
disaster. But, Iīll refrain from more comment until I know more... in English. I will be informing
Costco that if they are going to sell insurance to Americans, it is imperative they use a
company who will be providing English speaking people to assist and represent them.
About 15 years ago, on the advice of my friend Lana, I purchased a long term care policy. I
am very lucky to have that now. After three months, it will pick up most of my needs for the
next several months. One of the smarter things I have done for myself.
I let my travel policy go because I didnīt renew. Donīt let that happen. As it turned out, I did
not require emergency high level transport, but it would have been much easier to deal with
had I had that policy. I will have it going out on the road again.
I thank all of you who have sent cards and emailed me. It means so very much. What I have
written is from my memory. My friends have another view from where they were and can offer
suggestions for all of us on the road. I gave only my view, which for many days, was flat on
my back in bed. Had it not been for the wonderful people I share my life with, it would not
have this happy ending. I am alive, I am going to be well, and I will be back on the road as
soon as possible.
Joy, Sparkle and Tag Along
117 E 8th St, #401
Long Beach, CA 90813
[Edited on 4-25-2010 by udowinkler] |
that story is way too long to read. anybody have an abstract? people need to learn to write shorter blah, blah, blahs.
i hate long winded posts. |
[Edited on 9-17-2010 by Udo]
Udo
Youth is wasted on the young!
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vacaenbaja
Senior Nomad
 
Posts: 641
Registered: 4-4-2006
Member Is Offline
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English speaking adjusters would be nice but have little to do with how long anything takes. I have had to use my insurance several times and it
is a just long process. I speak spanish well enough to know that language
is not the major barrier to prompt service. As the saying goes time does not fly in
Mexico, it strolls. Things down there take a long time. Most paper work
still is not highly automated. Just be well insured with a insurance company that has suffient funds backing it and a good rating. Like tires there
are
many cheaper brands, but you can't go wrong with a good brand that will
serve you well when things are worst.
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woody with a view
PITA Nomad
     
Posts: 15939
Registered: 11-8-2004
Location: Looking at the Coronado Islands
Member Is Offline
Mood: Everchangin'
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doesn't Qualitas (or any other co.) have the SAME coverage for all of it's brokers? or can the brokers pick and choose the coverage they offer out of
the entire Qualitas package?
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bajadave1
Nomad

Posts: 225
Registered: 7-20-2004
Location: Los Barriles, BCS
Member Is Offline
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Qualitas & Jim Lewis
In defense of Lewis & Lewis, I totaled my truck near the airport at San Jose. The adjuster from qualitas was there in 30 minutes and spoke good
english. We knew the vehicle was a complete loss within days. Turned the keys over to the insurance Co. and then the waiting started. took a couple
of months, The hold up was the fact that my check had to be sent from the mainland. I got tired of waiting for the Los Cabos office to do ANYTHING! I
called Jim Lewis in So Cal, and he took care of expediting things for me. he held Qualitas's feet to the fire, and the check showed up in just a few
days. I highly recomend Lewis & Lewis.
This was 2 yrs. ago.
Dave
 
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Phil S
Super Nomad
  
Posts: 1205
Registered: 10-28-2003
Member Is Offline
Mood: After 34 years. Still in love w/ my wife
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Here's something to consider. Many years ago, while I was wintering in Baja, a company that did many things who had been writing with a Mexican
company for years that I had purchased the coverage from, tried to contact me (by using my address on my policy?) to advise me that the Mexican
insurance company had gone bankrupt!!!!! And that I had NO coverage from that date. When I had gotten home I found this out. YIKES!!!! I immediately
called Lewis & Lewis (I'd been advised by numerous American friends that lived down there year round of Lewis & Lewis)
I knew insurance, having been an indepedant agent for a number of years, and talked with the son of the owner. I was pleased to learn that that was
ALL they did. sold insurance. Was knowledgeble about what they sold. We discussed coverage, I placed my order. Many years no claims. I am a loyal
customer of Lewis & Lewis. I am happy with my coverage, and the company. I would hope none of you would ever have to chose insurance for price
alone. "you do get what you pay for". I had found that most of the 'potential' customers I did business with in those insurance days, hadn't a clue
what to ask for when they came into my office. I explained all coverages they had on their existing policy, and compared it with the companies I
represented. In most cases they had policies that had limited coverage. I wa able to increase their limits of liability, offered them smaller
deductibles, increased their limits on their "uninsured motorists" portion of the policy for close to what they were paying or a few dollars more.
And when the policy was issued. I'd bet close to 80% never opened the envelop when the policy arrived in the mail, to read the policy. check the
coverage or call back with questions. Trust your agent. but read your policy. READ YOUR POLICY. Wonder how many of my fellow Nomads will go and get
out their insurance policy, and read it for the first time. Wonder how many might call their agent and discuss raising some limits. Wonder how many
Nomads think their basic Mexican physical damage insurance portion automatically covers "everything"?And yes, I carry $500,000.00 limits on liability
because the increased premium is such a great deal over $300,000.00 limit. And we don't get the choice of choosing who we might be running into or
force off the road. It's alway a worse case we plan for. Ex: forcing a bus load of American tourists off the road. Hitting a Pemex tanker truck
causing it to explode lets say in downtown Ensenada. It's not hitting a cow, or a Mexican poor family. It's your obligation to financially have
sufficient coverage to take care of whomever you injure should it ever happen. God forbid!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Edited on 9-17-2010 by Phil S]
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wessongroup
Platinum Nomad
      
Posts: 21152
Registered: 8-9-2009
Location: Mission Viejo
Member Is Offline
Mood: Suicide Hot line ... please hold
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Yes I have coverage from a Mexican insurance Company, and feel about as comfortable with them as I do with ANY insurance Company...
They are business's... they make money... it's their job...
And as we saw in the last little financial hiccup... we saw how close they, the "Insurance Company's" follow exposure to risk ....... they don't have
worry about it or going out of business in the States and/or paying claims in may cases ... buy more ... aaaaahhhhhhh give me a brake.. rather have a
root canal without anesthetic than deal with an insurance company... over a CLAIM .. yeah, I've heard it before "your in good hands with ---------"
"we are here to help"
Pay your money and take your chances... they are run much the same...
Best hope you have, being poor... and not getting into an accident ... well, seems one of those is already being taken care of....

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