FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why is the premium so inexpensive compared to other companies?
Why do I have to fill out an application or endorsement form?
Who can drive?
Does my US / Canadian vehicle registration need to be current?
Do I have to carry US / Canadian insurance as well as my Mexican insurance?
What happens if I have a claim, do I call you?
Do the adjusters speak English?
Do you have offices all over Mexico?
Does Lewis and Lewis offer US / Canadian Insurance?
Can I insure a rental car?
Can I insure a motorcycle?
Can I switch vehicles on my policy?
How does the Safe Trip / Road Service work?
Am I covered if an uninsured motorist hits me?
What is considered Business Use?
Is the VIP Endorsement a good thing to add to my coverage?

Q. Why is the premium so inexpensive compared to other companies?

 A. The Law of Large Numbers and our relationship with the underwriter. We have thousands of vehicles insured in our fleet portfolio of clients, which generate an excellent loss ratio of 29.5% for the first quarter of 2005. The client and the Company benefit, it’s a win-win for all parties involved.

Q. Why do I have to fill out an application or endorsement form?

A. The underwriter requires that the client submit all new vehicles, changes of vehicle, changes in value, etc. in writing. We cannot take that information over the phone. We can mail or fax an application, or you can find one on line to print, or submit electronically.

Q. Who can drive?

A. Anyone with a valid drivers license who is a Non Mexican National, or a Mexican National with a Green Card.

Q. Does my US / Canadian vehicle registration need to be current?

A. It is recommended that you have current US / Canadian registration of your vehicle, to avoid any and all problems that may arise with the Mexican authorities. However, your Mexican Auto Insurance policy will be valid with or without current registration.

Q. Do I have to carry US / Canadian insurance as well as my Mexican insurance?

A. No, you do not need to carry US / Canadian insurance for your Mexican Auto Insurance to be valid. However, the policy you purchase from Lewis and Lewis does not cover you in the US or Canada.

Q. What happens if I have a claim, do I call you?

A. In the event of an accident or theft, you must file the claim while you are still in Mexico. You can do this by calling the toll free Claim Hotline from Mexico, dialing:

01 800 00 49600. You will be assigned a claim file number, and a local, available adjuster will be dispatched to you. Do not call Lewis and Lewis to file your claim. If you have an existing claim (that has been filed and is being worked on) that you are in need of help and / or information about, Lewis and Lewis can help to act as a liaison between you and the Company.

Q. Do the adjusters speak English?

A. Yes.

Q. Do you have offices all over Mexico?

A. Lewis and Lewis is an agent for the underwriter, Qualitas. We have one office in Los Angeles. However, Qualitas has offices and adjusters throughout Mexico.

Q. Does Lewis and Lewis offer US / Canadian Insurance?

A. No. We only insure in Mexico.

Q. Can I insure a rental car?

A. No.

Q. Can I insure a motorcycle?

A. As long as there is another item of business insured, such as a home or other vehicle, we can also insure a motorcycle. Medical Payments are not included with any motorcycle coverage.

Q. Can I switch vehicles on my policy?

A. You may change vehicles on your policy once in the policy period. There will be a $20 endorsement fee. There may be an additional premium if the value of the “new” vehicle or trailed unit is of a higher value than what was previously insured.

Q. How does the Safe Trip / Road Service work?

A. Safe Trip / Road Service is a reimbursement program for emergency roadside service, towing, and the shipment of parts. It is not like AAA, there is no number to call for assistance. You find the help you need, pay for the service, and then keep your receipts for reimbursement from the Company. The receipts must show Mexican Tax, and all original receipts must be submitted directly to Qualitas. Keep copies for yourself and your records. Please read more about Safe Trip / Road Service for complete details and coverage.

Q. Am I covered if an uninsured motorist hits me?

A. If you have purchased a full coverage policy, yes, you are covered for collision no matter if the other party is insured or uninsured. Please see your policy for details of coverage. If you would like to increase your medical payments, in the event that the other party is not insured, you can purchase the Uninsured Motorist Option for $18.00 that will add to your medical payments $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident.

Q. What is considered Business Use?

A. Any use of your vehicle for business purposes. Transporting people and/or materials for business purposes. Livery services are not covered. If you use your vehicle for business there is an additional fee of 20% of the base premium.

Q. Is the VIP Endorsement a good thing to add to my coverage?

A. Yes. The VIP Endorsement adds coverage for Vandalism, Increased Cost of Repair, and Partial Theft. All of which are not covered by the standard policy. The VIP Endorsement also includes rental car reimbursement, and reduces the glass deductible. The cost is an additional 30% of the base premium. Please read more about it in the VIP section to make an informed decision.