From 1 January 2026, it will be Adiós to warning triangles and hola to emergency beacons in Spain. On motorways and expressways, a modern flashing warning light will replace the classic warning triangle. The new regulation has one main goal: greater safety for all road users, reports the European Commission.
Until now, drivers had to get out of their cars in the event of a breakdown or accident to set up the warning triangle at a safe distance, often putting their lives at risk, especially on busy roads or in poor visibility conditions. The new V16 emergency beacon will instead be placed on the vehicle roof using a suction cup or magnetic base. If the roof is not accessible – for example, in a motorhome or van – the light can also be attached to the driver’s side of the vehicle or to the rear. While a warning triangle only alerts other road users to the accident through its colour and reflectors, the emergency beacon has a visibility range of up to one kilometre, ensuring that other road users are warned in good time.
But the device can do more than just flash. It is connected to the mobile network via an integrated eSIM card and, when activated, sends its exact location to the emergency services and the Spanish traffic authority DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) every 100 seconds. This enables faster and more targeted assistance to be provided in an emergency.
Certified emergency beacons required
The V16 emergency beacon is not just any LED warning light, but a specially certified safety product with clear specifications from the Spanish traffic authority DGT. It must have orange LEDs with a 360° field of vision, be splash-proof and dust-proof in accordance with the IP54 standard, and be securely attachable to the vehicle. Another key point is connectivity, as only the version with integrated eSIM is permitted. Power is supplied by a rechargeable battery or regular battery, which must guarantee an operating time of at least 18 months. Important: Only V16 beacons with official DGT certification may be used. The traffic authority provides a list of all approved models on its website.
The new regulation applies exclusively to motorways and expressways. Warning triangles may still be used on country roads and in built-up areas, but the use of warning lights is also recommended there. To avoid losing valuable time in an emergency, the DGT recommends keeping the emergency beacon within easy reach, preferably in the glove compartment.
Changes for tourists
Nothing will change for travellers from the United Kingdom driving their own vehicles to Spain – the obligation to use hazard warning lights only applies to vehicles registered in Spain. The situation is different for rental cars: these must be equipped with the new hazard warning lights from 2026.