 Driving here is not like driving in your hometown. The fact that your driver's license is valid in Mexico doesn't mean you should just jump behind the wheel and go. Driving in Mexico can be an adventure. It offers the freedom to explore the "undiscovered" Mexico, places off the beaten path and inaccessible by public transportation. Even in town, it can add independence and ease, but be careful. Driving here is not like driving in your hometown. The fact that your driver's license is valid in Mexico doesn't mean you should just jump behind the wheel and go.
Many of the accepted rules of the road are different here, as are road layout, traffic signals and signage. For example, many of the main streets, such as the one to the airport in Puerto Vallarta, have laterals, or separate lanes running next to the main roadway. Wherever laterals exist, you must leave the main roadway via "mini-off ramps" in order to turn right or left or to reverse directions.
So, instead of making a left turn from the left lane of the main roadway, you exit the main roadway via the off-ramp and proceed along the left lane of the lateral to the intersection. When the left-turn arrow changes to green, proceed with caution, crossing all lanes of the main roadway. Another factor to consider is the traffic entering the main roadway from the lateral, often a source of confusion and unexpected lane changes.
Fortunately, the lanes of the main road are intended for the same use as those in the USA and Canada: those to the left are for faster traffic, while those on the right are for slower traffic and, supposedly, buses. But then, there are the traffic lights. Frequently there are banks of lights with unfamiliar signals such as flashing reds, yellows or greens, which mean the light is about to change; yellow and red flashing simultaneously, which means that the wiring is bad; and sometimes two red lights, just for emphasis. (Sometimes, right turns on red are allowed at major intersections, usually accompanied by signage to that effect, but following the example of other drivers may be your best indication.)
Modern highways, such as the toll road from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara, now connect many Mexican cities. A portion of the toll collected covers insurance for accidents while on that road, but insurance for the rest of the drive is an important consideration. While Mexican insurance isn't required, it can be a good idea since your credit card policy (such as the American Express Platinum card) may not provide the coverage you need. If you are in an accident in Mexico and are not insured, you may be arrested and your vehicle impounded while the authorities resolve the situation.
These toll roads also have emergency telephones every several kilometers, connected to the tollbooths and hence to the federal police, or federales, as well as ambulance services should they be required. Some of the tollbooths have restroom facilities and other services, such as beverages, snacks and hot food. Take advantage of the chance for a break, stretch your legs and walk around, because the best driver is an alert driver, and being alert can save a life.
Driving at night in Mexico can be particularly challenging, as it is not uncommon to come upon wandering livestock or a vehicle driving without lights. Since road hazards are more difficult to spot at night, you might consider restricting your driving to the daytime hours. No matter the time of day, be aware that signals made by other drivers with their vehicle lights have different meanings here. A flashing left turn signal may indicate an upcoming turn, or it could mean that it's safe for you to pass. Flashing headlights behind you mean they wish to pass. If an oncoming vehicle flashes its lights at you, it means there's trouble ahead. Proceed with caution.
In the event you are stopped by the police, remain calm and treat the officer with the utmost respect. Answer questions without being confrontational; being a tourist unaware of the traffic laws is not an acceptable excuse. Do not attempt to bribe the officer, even if it seems to be expected. Instead, ask for a ticket.
One thing you don't need to worry about In Mexico is being stranded on the major highways, which are patrolled by Los Angeles Verdes, or the Green Angels. These bilingual mechanics in radio-dispatched green pick-up trucks are sponsored by Mexico's federal government to provide basic roadside assistance free of charge, except for parts and gas. A tip is appreciated, but not expected. In case of emergency, they can be reached at (55) 5250-8555 or signaled by raising the hood of your car.
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