As from 1 January 2026, it will be mandatory for most vehicles to carry the V16 emergency light, which replaces the warning triangles. Warning triangles will no longer be used in Spain from that date, replaced by the emergency lights.
At the moment, during the transition period, you can use either triangles or warning lights, except on motorways where triangle us is no longer mandatory, but the clock is ticking to get a replacement, which is prompting more questions, which we will answer here.
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If you activate the emergency light, do you still have to call for recovery?
YES, at the moment, the V16 is connected to the DGT3 platform, which provides information, but you still need to contact the recovery service advised by your insurance company. Modern vehicles have the SOS function, but these elements are not yet linked.
Do they need power or are they battery operated?
They are battery operated, but some are rechargeable. You should still check them periodically, much as you would a smoke alarm at home,
Do motorbikes have to carry the V16?
No, it is not mandatory for motorbikes, but as they are small and easy to carry, it is a good idea.
Do I have to buy a “connected” device?
At the moment, you can use either the basic or connected lights, but in the future only the connected version will be permitted.
Can any flashing lights be used, such as those in bazaars?
No. You need to be very careful when purchasing the V16 that the emergency light has been approved by the DGT. On the N332.es website, we have a small selection from Amazon that we have tried and recommend, and on the DGT website there is a full list of all approved devices.
Where should the V16 be placed?
When carried and not being used, you should carry the V16 in the glove box. When activated, it should be placed on the highest part of the vehicle, which is usually the roof. If this is not possible, or if the roof position would be obscured, you should place it as high as possible where it can be seen.
What happens when I activate the V16?
When you activate the connected light, it sends an alert to the DGT3 platform, and from there, a warning appears on the live traffic map of your location, and, if applicable, the matrix signs on motorways will alert drivers of your location ahead.
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