Driving in Caborca

Don’t be nervous, driving here is generally safe (I’ve been driving here for years
without any incidents). Drivers are generally courteous and alert to traffic situations,
although they can appear to be a bit impatient. Just keep in mind that things are a
bit different here, less-structured than traffic north of the border.

Also, if you're not up for driving around town, there are other options for getting
around.

There are three key things to remember when driving in Caborca:

• Be alert,

• Be patient, and

• Be courteous.

Many of the drivers here have never had formal driver training (nor have a driver’s
license), so be prepared to see vehicles coming from any direction and possibly
maneuvering in unorthodox ways.

For example, it’s not unusual to see two friends having a conversation… while stopped
in the middle of the street blocking traffic from both directions. Also, drivers will
sometimes merge into traffic from a parking place without negotiating ongoing traffic,
as though they have the right of way.

Also, many drivers approaching an intersection from a cross-street won’t stop until
the last minute. This may make it appear that they’re going to enter the street and
collide with your vehicle, but don’t get nervous and cause an accident. Just be alert,
and soon you’ll get used to the traffic flow.

Many of the vehicles on the road in Caborca are on their last legs, still running only
because of the mechanical ingenuity of their owners. Because of this, you'll
sometimes encounter a vehicle moving slowly. Be patient and courteous, and be alert
to other cars passing.

Stoplights

You may notice stoplights at many intersections, especially in the centro (downtown)
area. They aren’t functional (they tried them for awhile, but because drivers were so
used to the four-way stops the lights ended up causing more choques (accidents).
The only functional stoplight is at the intersection of Carretera Internacional (highway
2) and Avenida Quiroz y Mora.

Four-way stops

Many drivers don’t know the rules to who should proceed in an intersection with a
four-way stop. And, even if they do know the rules, it seems like there are other
informal rules for crossing – the biggest pick-up truck gets the right of way, friendly
drivers yield their turn as a friendly gesture, etc. Because of this, you have to be alert
when crossing.

Basically, don’t be too aggressive (be alert when crossing the intersection) but don’t
be too timid, either. Oftentimes if another driver senses that you are hesitant, he will
take the initiative and cross first.

Topes (speed bumps)

Oftentimes these aren’t marked well, so be alert – some topes are very large, and if
not painted they tend to blend in with the colors of the street.

Accidents

If you do get into an accident, don’t leave the scene - a traffic policeman will soon
arrive to handle the incident. Have your driver’s license and insurance information
ready.