Hazard Lights in Spain: When to Use Them and How to Avoid a Fine

With the implementation of the mandatory, connected V-16 emergency beacon, Spain’s traffic regulations regarding vehicle immobilisation have changed significantly. A common misconception among some drivers is that the new roof-mounted flashing beacon replaces the need for your car’s traditional hazard lights to be used in an incident. This is incorrect and can prove costly.

The Law: Article 109 & 115 (Reglamento General de Circulación)

Under Spanish traffic law, your vehicle’s hazard warning lights (luces de emergencia) must be activated the moment your vehicle is forced to stop on the road or hard shoulder due to a breakdown, puncture, or accident.

The Double-Signalling Mandate: You must activate your vehicle´s hazard lights and place your approved V-16 beacon on the roof. Failing to turn on your hazard lights during an emergency breakdown carries a fine, even if your V-16 light is active, and removes a built in warning device´s protection.

Sudden Deceleration You are also legally required to activate your hazard lights to warn drivers behind you if you are forced to slow down drastically or come to an unexpected halt due to a sudden traffic jam (retenciones).

Common Misuses That Attract Fines

Hazard lights do not grant immunity from parking laws. The Police and Guardia Civil can issue fines between 80 and 200 euro for the following improper uses:

Double Parking: Leaving your hazard lights flashing while you pop into a shop or use an ATM in a non-designated bay.

Unauthorised Stopping: Activating them to justify a non-emergency stop on urban roads where parking is restricted.

A Warning not Protection

Hazard warning lights serve to warn other road users of a problem, but they do not mean you are protected, which is why all available warning and protection methods must be used in conjunction.