What if I get hurt in Mexico?
Asked by: Dr. Edward Muller | Last update: September 30, 2025Score: 4.9/5 (59 votes)
What happens if I go to the hospital in Mexico?
ER services at public hospitals in Mexico are free for residents enrolled in the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS). However, for tourists or those not enrolled in IMSS, ER services come with charges. If you visit a private hospital, you'll need to pay out of pocket unless your travel insurance covers the costs.
What happens if you get in an accident in Mexico?
If You Have Mexican Car Insurance
Your Mexican auto insurance company will help you after a car accident. Be sure to contact them as soon as possible. Call the police first! Your Mexican auto insurance policy will provide you with bail bond insurance, as well as accident insurance if you purchased that coverage.
Can you sue for injury in Mexico?
You have a claim for compensation and damages in Mexico if these points apply to your case: The accident was not your fault. There was negligence by another driver or a property owner which caused your injury. For instance, on the resort grounds, was there water on the floor that would cause a slip and fall?
Can US citizens get medical care in Mexico?
US citizens living and working in Mexico may be eligible for healthcare in Mexico under the IMSS, which is the healthcare system provided under Mexico's private employment sector. If you have legal residency and are self-employed there, you can opt-in to the system voluntarily.
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What to do if you get hurt in Mexico?
Assess the injury and seek medical attention if necessary. Call 911 for emergency services in Mexico. information specific to the incident. For example, a vehicle registration number in a road traffic accident.
What happens if you get injured in another country?
If you have a medical emergency while abroad the cost may be covered by the travel insurance you purchased before your trip. Travel insurance is designed for things like emergency services, an air ambulance (to move you off of a cruise ship quickly in an emergency situation), or general medical bills.
How much should I sue for personal injury?
To determine a good personal injury payout amount, review all the details of your case. Total your losses from the accident by adding the cost of your hospital bills and treatment. Speak with a medical expert to estimate the cost of future care you may also need.
How do lawsuits work in Mexico?
Court procedures in Mexico are efficient, both in time and in essence. Litigation proceedings are not very lengthy, and courts follow the deadlines established by law and render their judgments accordingly.
Will my insurance cover me in Mexico?
Your U.S. car insurance may offer limited coverage in Mexico, but it isn't valid there. You'll need a separate liability policy to meet the legal requirements in the country.
How do I claim a body in Mexico?
Legal Requirements for Claiming a loved one's Body in Mexico
Be prepared to provide passports, birth certificates, or marriage certificates. When a U.S. citizen dies in Mexico, the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agent has to prepare a Report of Death from the local Mexican death certificate.
What is legally considered an accident?
An accident is an unplanned, unintentional event that causes damage or injury. Accidents are unpredictable and occur without any intent or negligence. For example, a tree branch falling on a parked car during a storm in California would be considered an accident - there was no intent or negligence, just bad luck.
Do hospitals in Mexico take American insurance?
Do Mexican hospitals accept USA coverage? USA health insurance coverage is not accepted in private hospitals of Mexico. The same is applicable for Medicare as well. Unless you have a USA health plan that covers healthcare in Mexico, you will have to pay out-of-pocket for availing medical services.
What happens if you can't pay a hospital bill in Mexico?
There have been cases where people have been unable to withdraw cash or have sufficient cash to pay their hospital bills. And then, these hospitals have taken their passport or resident card until they can pay off their bill. It's not always the case, but you must ask this beforehand if you can do so.
What to do if you have an emergency in Mexico?
911 is Mexico's national emergency number and will give you the fastest response.
How much can you get out of pain and suffering?
Settlements can range from thousands to millions of dollars. Recent jury verdicts in California personal injury cases have awarded substantial amounts, including over $1 million for future pain and suffering.
What injuries pay the most?
The highest-paying car accident injuries often involve severe conditions like spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and multiple fractures. These injuries require extensive medical treatment, leading to substantial medical bills and significant pain and suffering damages.
What is the average payout for an ankle injury?
The average verdict award in ankle injury cases is $86,000 and the median is $33,000. The main reason for this difference is because you get a lot of minor ankle injury claims in auto accident cases, and these tend to pull down the averages.
What to do if I get sick in Mexico?
A few symptoms indicate that you should see a doctor immediately, either while in Mexico or after you've returned home. These include blood in your stool, a fever over 102 degrees, or compulsive vomiting for hours, such that you can't keep fluids of any kind down, risking dehydration.
What happens if you don't pay a foreign hospital bill?
If no action is taking on your medical bill and you do not pay what is owed, additional charges can be added to your account balance in the form of late fees and interest. Additionally, the healthcare provider can move your balance into international debt collection or file a lawsuit against you.
Can you fly with an injury?
Minor Injuries: If you have sustained minor injuries, such as sprains, strains, or minor cuts, and you are in stable condition, you may be able to fly after seeking medical advice. Rest and appropriate treatment can allow for safe air travel.
What happens if I need to go to the hospital in Mexico?
Once you enter a hospital or emergency department in Mexico you will typically be required to sign a release of legal redress. Pay attention to details about the paperwork you receive, whether there is a signature line for you or your insurance company.
Does Mexico have free healthcare for foreigners?
Public health services do not have reciprocal agreements with other countries. This means that foreign programs such as US Medicare are not available in Mexico. Therefore, both visitors and foreign residents who are not enrolled in the public programs must make private health care arrangements.