The thought of driving in Mexico can be intimidating, unless you become familiar with these five strategies for safety.
1. The Glorieta: Going in Circles
Traffic circles are used everywhere in the world. Everywhere, it seems, EXCEPT in the United States which, for the most part, relies on traffic lights to manage busy intersections. In theory, traffic pours in from any direction but yields to the traffic currently in the circle.
In Mexico, this theme may have a number of variations, including…ta da…traffic lights to meter IN entering traffic. Also, some urban circles may have ramps over or under particularly nightmarish glorietas.
My strategy: In Mexico´s urban centers, urban planners have put signs that diagram the approaching circle and the destination of each of the exiting streets. Although some diagrams require a degree in organic chemistry, I try to mentally note which number exit I will take. As I drive around the circle, I keep track of where I am–out loud: “exit at fourth, passing exit two, passing three, take the next.” This causes my passengers to question my sanity, but hey, it works.
2. Lateral: a ride on the side
In an effort to separate local and express traffic, the lateral (lah-teh-RAHL) is a one or two-lanes separated from the central lanes with a concrete curb. This curb is at the perfect height to give the local llantera (tire man) business. Metal control surfaces mark spots through which you may enter or exit the lateral.
U turns (a retorno) or lefts begin in the lateral on the lane closest to center. Turns are usually controlled by a green arrow, which may appear over any one of the lanes. I had to learn this by observation.
My strategy: Even when you have the green arrow, prevent your own death by checking that no one is running the red. This I also learned by observation. When entering or exiting the lateral, it is best to check your mirrors, squint, and shout ándale! ándale! to ensure your success.
3. Cuota v. Libre: Do you get what you pay for?
The cuota (toll) roads of Mexico are some of the finest highways I have driven. The newest autopistas have SOS call boxes at regular intervals and highly reflected lines and median strips. Angeles verde (“Green Angels”) regularly (and slowly) ply the routes to assist with flats, jump starts or emergency refueling.
These roads also have state-of-the-art toll plazas to extract (in cash or electronically) a cuota approaching the cost of airfare (no exaggeration) to the same destination. For example, a 200 mile trip from Manzanillo to Guadalajara roundtrip set us back $100 US in tolls. To be fair, this cuota provides a point-to-point insurance for all users; it’s a consolation since you’re sharing the road with double trailers bearing 50,000 liters of gasoline
The libre routes are a (at times) delightful immersion into Mexican roadside culture. Local eateries, artisans, and snack vendors line the libre routes. Local street foods are not to be missed! Many local attractions, natural formations, and historical sites are only accessible from the libre.
From a crime awareness point of view, we have never felt unsafe on any of the libres. From a driving safety standpoint, some libres traverse through mountainous areas subject to flooding or landslides. Other libres are poorly lit, sporadically signed, and painfully dotted with topes (speed bumps) and vibradores (rumble strips) to further slow your progress.
How to choose: You will need five hot local tacos in one hand and your wallet in the other. If your wallet weighs more than the five tacos, take the cuota. Unfortunately, you can only buy the delicious hot tacos on the libre. To each his own. Have fun!
4. The Semaphoro and other lights
You may encounter some unfamiliar traffic control devices or patterns in your southward trek.
The blinking green is simply a sign that the light is about to turn yellow. Act on it as if it were an extension of the yellow light; it is actually very helpful. Yellow lights tend to be very brief, or worse, burned out. Let the driver beware.
The red-plus-yellow light means the light is about to turn green. Co-pilots for sleepy drivers, prepare your elbows.
The red-and-blue lights on top of a black and white vehicle mean absolutely nothing. Police and ambulances ride around with their lights on constantly. Now, take a deep breath and repeat after me, “It means absolutely nothing.” However, if accompanied by a squawking siren, a frantic wave to the side by the uniformed policia, or a command over the loudspeaker–get your license and registration ready.
Your left turn signal means “pass me on the left”. This is most often used by heavily loaded trucks climbing a steep grade. On a two/lane road, any slow moving vehicle will use the left turn signal and move as far as possible to the right to allow you to pass. Unfortunately, most norteamericanos are used to using this to communicate an intention to change into the left lane. Unless you are at a standstill in an urban left turn lane or want to give permission to be passed, forget using your left turn signal.
A young boy washing windows while we stop at a light.
5. Don’t hurry, be happy!
Wherever you drive, there you are. That is, if you are a hotheaded, horn-blowing road rager up north, you will be the same over the border. Consider taking Mexico’s extensive bus system. In heavy, high speed traffic, anyone can find many reasons to be frustrated. Impatient speeding kills more people every year both north and south of the border.
The best insurance is a cool head and a willingness to learn.
Unfamiliar signage and traffic patterns can make any driver feel homesick. Look on the happy side of the trade-offs. Trade shaking at a wintry self-service pump for cordial, sunny full service. Trade boring urban stop lights for vendors, windshield washers, and fire-breathing jugglers. Trade the cold and familiar for the warm and adventurous.
Isn’t this why you’re in Mexico anyway?
Article by, Brent
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