What to Do After an Accident

WARNING:

There have been multiple reports of staged accidents along the US-Mexico border. If you’re ever involved in an accident, it’s crucial that you contact your insurance company directly — do not allow a third party to call on your behalf. Never settle with the third party in cash, as it will invalidate your claim.

All claims must be reported before you leave the Republic of Mexico.

Any claim not reported immediately may be subject to denial.

In the event an accident should occur, here are some general guidelines to follow:

If possible, do not move the vehicles until you are given permission by the authorities.
Dial 911. Make sure an accident investigator (perito) is sent to do an accident report before you do anything to the vehicle, including moving it, attemping to repair it, etc. An accident report is important to have to file a claim and prevent delays in paying your claim.
Call your insurance company immediately after the accident occurs and before you leave Mexico.
- HDI Seguros direct within Mexico +52 (477) 740-2818 or U.S. toll free +1 (888) 212-7642
- Chubb Seguros direct within Mexico +52 (818) 864-9322 or U.S. toll free +1 (877) 699-6679
Have your policy handy. A bilingual representative will be able to assist you and they will ask you for information about the event.
Other parties who were involved in the accident may try to offer payment to you for damages. Do NOT accept any payment without consulting the insurance company.
In many cases, an adjuster will be sent to the scene. Be sure to obtain an adjuster's report.
Information to collect at the scene:
- Contact information for drivers involved
- Insurance information for drivers involved
- Other relevant information
Once the investigation is complete, it will be determined who is at fault. This may be carried out at the scene or at the police station. Hopefully at this time an agreement will be worked out to compensate the non-guilty party.
You have the right to ask for an attorney while at the police station. If you feel you may need an attorney, discuss this with the HDI or Chubb representative.
Even if minor injuries have occured during the accident, the case may go to the State DA's Office.
It is recommended to check with your domestic medical insurance company to find out what coverage you have, if any, while traveling in a foreign country. Ask the company to send you the details of the coverage in writing if possible.

Contacting the Insurance Company Once You Are Home

HDI or Chubb will inform you of the next steps to take and how to stay in contact during the claims process.

HDI Seguros works with International Claims Service in Texas to help facilitate the claim and provide information to you once you have returned home. Their toll-free number is +1 (800) 284-9783 or direct +1 (956) 682-1353.

Chubb Seguros can be contacted from the US by dialing their U.S. toll free number: +1 (844) 804-9288

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us as well, toll free +1 (888) 552-2252 or use our contact form.

HDI Seguros
+52 (477) 740-2818 or +1 (888) 212-7642

Chubb Seguros
+52 (818) 864-9322 or +1 (877) 699-6679

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About Our Sources

We work hard to maintain the validity and accuracy of the information we provide in our Before You Go guide to traveling into Mexico, and coming back to the United States. We source our information through government websites and the direct relationships we have with community and government leaders both in the United States and Mexico. Our team is based in San Diego and crosses the US/Mexico border often. Additionally we are involved with advocating for a better border crossing experience through our work with the Smart Border Coalition and regional chambers of commerce. Please contact us with questions or corrections.