does happen, but it's the exception, not the rule.

If you're worried about corrupt cops, I have this advice:

- Don't break the law; don't give the cop an excuse to stop you. Even corrupt cops usually stop you for legitimate reasons. And remember, US law doesn't apply.

- Get an international drivers license, which are cheap and easy to get, and are valid in Mexico. If a cop asks for your license, give him that one, but don't offer up your regular US license. If the cop threatens to keep the international DL unless you bribe him, let him keep it. No big deal.

-Carry a photocopy of your passport (including your entry stamp, if possible) at all times. If the cops asks for your passport, give him the copy instead. I always carry a copy and leave my actual passport in a safe in the hotel.

- If the cop asks for a bribe, tell him that you want the ticket ("multa') instead. Corrupt cops want a bribe, and don't want to issue a real ticket; that's a waste of time & effort for them, since they get nothing out of it. If he issues you a ticket, then he probably isn't corrupt and you probably deserve the ticket & fine anyway. If he is corrupt, he'll most likely just give up and let you go when he sees that you insist that he issue a ticket.