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   If you're planning a driving trip into Canada or Mexico, you'll want to check with your auto insurance company to make sure your coverage will protect you when you're out of the country.

  Most insurance policies issued in the United States will protect you if you're involved in an accident during a driving trip to Canada. Be sure to carry "proof of coverage," the card your insurer issues you with your policy renewal. Your insurance company can also provide a "travel card" that conforms to Canada's legal requirements for proof of coverage. your insurance agent should be able to provide you with a card on request.

 If you're traveling south of the border, the situation gets trickier. Mexico doesn't recognize most US-issued auto insurance policies, which means you have to arrange for insurance from a Mexico-based insurer. Contact your auto insurer a few weeks before you leave to find out which insurers it recommends. In some cases, you may need to actually purchase your coverage once you are in Mexico; some American companies, however, can arrange for you to obtain coverage before you leave the country.

 And remember that if you're driving more than a few miles into Mexico, you'll also be required to visit a customs office to show your auto registration, or a copy of your auto rental contract.

 Whichever direction you're heading, a call to your insurer before you leave can help minimize hassles in the unfortunate event of an accident in a foreign country.

This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only, and should not be considered as legal advice. Always contact a licensed and experienced attorney before taking any legal action.

To see previous consumer tips, click here.