Expecting a chaotic and haphazard experience? Well that’s not the case at all. Many of the country’s major routes have been extensively renewed and are significantly safer than before.

Since the early 1990s, Mexico has invested large amounts of money to upgrade its interstate road network. Most of those roads are tolled, and are more expensive than the USA. However these roads are modern, well maintained and four-lanes wide, apart from rugged mountainous areas.

Alternatively, you can travel on Mexico’s non-tolled interstate roads for free, they are known as ‘carreteras federales.’ Be warned through – they are often very slow two­-lane highways and you are very likely to get stuck behind slow-moving traffic. The maintenance of these roads is poor, so look out for potholes and other hazards.

Renting a car is very easy in Mexico, and there are plenty of reputable outlets to do this from. You are strongly advised to do this rather than bringing a vehicle from across the border. If nothing else, it will help you blend into your surroundings easier.

If you choose to follow maps to get around, you won’t get a true picture of Mexican driving. You would be advised to look on the internet for a digital guide, and definitely use a satellite-navigation system.

It is important for you to carry your driver and vehicle documentation at all times when you are driving in Mexico. Traffic police are allowed to ask to see your licence and car registration card, known as the ‘tarjeta de circulacion’ at any time. It is advisable to keep your car insurance papers with you too.

If you’re renting a car in Mexico, apart from the documents above, your rental company will provide the other necessary documentation you need.

If your business takes you to Mexico City, most overseas travellers avoid driving themselves. Mexico City is extremely congested and journey times for even mid-range distances are often one hour plus — and considerably longer during the early morning rush hour, and again between 6pm and 9pm.

And you will need to keep your wits about you in Mexico City! Drivers in Mexico often don’t use their indicators, and are unlikely to let you in from a side road either.

Cars may be in a poorer condition than you might be used to in Europe or the US; bald tyres, no headlights or rear lights and faulty brake lights are commonplace – so other drivers might not see you or react as quickly as you might think.

Away from the city, smaller and local roads have often deteriorated badly. Watch out for potholes, which can be deep and severe.

Driving at night in Mexico, especially in rural areas, is to be avoided. Those big potholes are often marked only by cones which are impossible to see after dark. Roads and lanes might not be painted and signs unlit – if you have to drive after dark, stick to the main highways.

In conclusion, choose carefully when and where to drive if you are going to Mexico – otherwise, stay alert and drive defensively.