Understanding Traffic Regulations in Mexico City
In Mexico City, helping a stranded driver by pushing or towing their vehicle can lead to fines and penalties. According to Article 12 of the Traffic Regulations, pushing or towing a vehicle without the assistance of a crane is prohibited. This means that using people or other cars to move a stranded vehicle is considered illegal and can result in negative points on the driver’s license and a fine for endangering other users.
Enforcement of Traffic Regulations
The traffic police in Mexico City are responsible for reviewing situations on the roads and can fine drivers who are pushing or towing vehicles without a tow truck. In addition to fines, authorities can also remove the vehicle’s plates, retain the driver’s license, or confiscate the car’s registration card if the user refuses to pay the fine or is unable to do so at the time.
Penalties for Towing a Vehicle
The Ministry of Mobility of Mexico City explains that the fine for towing a vehicle can range from 1,132 to 2,262 pesos, depending on the value of the Unit of Measurement and Update (UMA) on the day of the violation. Furthermore, three penalty points will be applied to the license, and upon reaching 12 consecutive points due to sanctions, the license will be canceled. To recover the license, users must pay the fines and comply with civil penalties, such as community work or addiction treatment.
Payment and Settlement of Fines
Users who are unable to pay the fine on the spot can settle their debt through the Citizen Consultation of Mexico City page by writing down the number of the vehicle’s plate. Alternatively, they can go directly to the Tax Administration Offices of the CDMX Treasury of the Secretary of Finance.
Exceptions to Towing Prohibitions
Although Article 12 of the Traffic Regulations prohibits towing vehicles, there are three exceptions that allow this situation:
- If the vehicle is designed to tow.
- If the vehicle is obstructing circulation.
- If the vehicle represents a danger to other drivers and is moved to a safe place.
Broader Implications
The prohibition on towing vehicles without a tow truck is not unique to Mexico City. Other states, such as the State of Mexico, also have regulations that prohibit pushing or towing vehicles without a crane, except in specific circumstances like when the vehicle obstructs traffic or represents a danger.