This year, 2025, will be the last year in which the DGT and the relevant authorities allow drivers of vehicles to circulate in Spain. Use the emergency triangle in case of breakdown on the road. This was decided by the General Directorate of Traffic during 2024, and the organization has given a year of margin for all drivers to acquire the alternative to the mythical pre-signaling triangle: a V-16 beacon.
This consists of a rotating light that will have to be placed on top of the car in case of forced detection in the middle of a road due to an accident or breakdown. But why have they made this decision?
The answer is found in the danger of triangles for cars and motorcycles that come down the road at high speed. So, As of January 1, 2026, it will be mandatory for all cars to have this beacon (orange or yellow) to signal the fault.
According to the DGT, the beacon is more visible and less dangerous than the triangle. The V-16 is capable of emitting high intensity light, intermittently and at 360º for at least half an hour. Its use is very easy, and you just need to stick it to the ceiling or a car door with a magnet.
In addition, they report that the safest place to locate it is the glove compartment, where they advise always carrying it. Among the characteristics that make this beacon a key tool for detecting accidents is the fact that they are visible from a kilometer even in fog, in addition to being geolocatable, so the DGT can receive the exact position of the car once it is detected.
The price of the beacon ranges between 40 and 50 eurosand it is recommended to consult the DGT website to check which ones are official and approved. In any case, the price of this new road element will be cheaper than the fine to which those who do not carry it will be exposed, which are between 80 and 200 euros.
