When visiting or living in Mexico, it’s essential to know the local emergency numbers and important rules, especially for driving and handling accidents. Being informed can save you time, frustration, and even your life. Here’s a handy guide to help you stay prepared.
Emergency Numbers to Know
- 911 Emergency Line: For police, fire, and paramedics.
Note: Some bilingual operators are available in cities like Puerto Vallarta. When calling, ask immediately if someone speaks your language.
- Pro Tip: Calls to 911 from cell phones are often rerouted to local services, even in Mexico.
- Dialing from Outside Mexico: Add the country code +52 before the number.
- Dialing an 800 Number: change the 800 prefix to 001-880 and then dial the rest of the phone number. For example, to call the US toll-free number 800-555-5555 from Mexico, you would dial 001-880-555-5555.
Puerto Vallarta Police and Traffic Department (24/7)
322- 224-8484
WhatsApp: +52-322-242-6982
Motor Vehicle Department: 322-224-8484
Puerto Vallarta Public Safety, Fire and Lifeguards
322-178-8800
Legal Assistance for Visitors
322-135-9598
Electric Company (CFE Mexico)
Dial 071 on a Mexican phone or 322-225-5555
Street Emergency Button
There is a security system at 120 different points throughout the city for rapid emergency response. To see locations, click here.
Hospital Numbers
Most hospitals in Puerto Vallarta are immaculate, modern, and efficient, providing excellent care for a fraction of the cost you might be used to back home. When possible, always ask how much it will cost before receiving care. Occasionally, there are isolated incidents where patients are charged extraordinary fees. If it seems high and you have the luxury of waiting or asking to speak to an administrator, then do so. Or, tell them you are leaving and try another hospital.
- CMQ Premiere: 322-226-6500
- Hospiten: 322-226-2081
- Hospital Joya: 322-226-1010
- San Mare: 322-252-1711
- Vallarta Medical Center: 322-178-3000
- Medassist: 322-223-0444
- CMQ: 322-223-0878
- IMSS (Social Security Hospital): 322-224-3838
- Regional Hospital: 322-224-4000
U.S. Consular Agency, Puerto Vallarta / Nuevo Vallarta
Within Mexico: (33) 4624-2102
From the United States: 1 (844) 528-6611
conagencypuertov@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General, Guadalajara
Within Mexico: (33) 4624-2102
From the United States: 1 (844) 528-6611
ACSGDL@state.gov
Consular Agency of Canada
Plaza Peninsula, Local Sub F
2485 Francisco M. Ascensio Blvd.
North Hotel Zone, Puerto Vallarta 48300
Within Mexico: +52 (55) 5724-9799
pvrta@international.gc.ca
Consular Agency of Canada Website
Puerto Vallarta Airport
Ph. (322) 221-1298 / (322) 221-1325 / (322) 221-1537
Puerto Vallarta City Tourism Department
Ph. (322) 222-0923 (ext. 230 or 232 for tourism protection)
123 Independencia Street, Ground Floor
Centro, Puerto Vallarta 48300
Driving in Mexico: What You Need to Know
Driving in Mexico has its unique rules and customs. Understanding these will ensure a smoother experience and help avoid fines or complications.
Traffic Light Rules
- Yellow Light Means Stop: Unlike in some countries where a yellow light means “hurry,” in Mexico, it signals you to stop unless it’s unsafe. Proceeding through a yellow light is the most common reason for being stopped.
In Case of an Accident
- Do Not Leave the Scene: In Mexico, it’s illegal to leave the scene of an accident. As of mid-2024, you are now allowed to carefully move vehicles out of a major intersection (without personal injury or death involved) to allow others to pass. Otherwise, stay exactly where you are and wait for:
- Police: They will file a report required for any legal or insurance claims.
- Your Insurance Representative: You can only file a claim with their presence at the accident site.
Right of Way
- At intersections without signals, the first vehicle to arrive generally has the right of way. However, always proceed cautiously, as other drivers may not adhere to this rule.
Car Insurance
- Mandatory: Third-party liability insurance is required in Mexico. Check with your provider to ensure coverage for driving in the country.
Additional Safety Tips
- Pedestrian Crossings: Vehicles don’t always yield to pedestrians, so cross cautiously.
- Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Avoid Driving at Night: Poorly lit roads and unexpected hazards can make nighttime driving dangerous.
- Toll Roads (“Cuotas”): These are safer and better maintained than free roads (“Libres”).
Other Essential Numbers
- Water/Sewer Company (SEPAL): 322-223-1516
- Municipal Services: 322-223-2500
- Tourism Protection Hotline: 078
- Immigration Office: 322-224-7643
- Consumer Protection (PROFECO) is who you call to report noise disturbances, construction, and other quality-of-life matters: 322-225-0000 or 322-225-0018
Did You Know?
- Carry Cash for Tolls: As in pesos, most toll roads require cash; credit cards aren’t always accepted. Alternatively, you can purchase a Televia tag at most OXXO convenience stores. This works in some states but not all.
- Police Stops: Traffic police can issue fines on the spot but should provide a receipt. If you feel uncomfortable, ask to resolve the matter at the station.
By keeping these emergency numbers and driving tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to handle unexpected situations during your stay in Mexico.
Always plan ahead, stay calm, and enjoy your time in this vibrant country!