The traditional warning triangle, considered too dangerous, will be replaced by an innovative device: the V-16 rotating beacon!
A flashing light in your car?
This small light box, which emits an orange or yellow light visible up to a kilometer away, even in difficult conditions such as fog or darkness, will become mandatory for all vehicles circulating on Spanish territory from 2026. Spain's General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) took this decision as part of its 2030 road safety strategy, aiming to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads by 50%.
The V-16 is more than just a flashing beacon. Equipped with a geolocation system, it can automatically transmit the vehicle's position to the Spanish road authorities, allowing faster emergency intervention if necessary. This feature represents a significant advancement in safety, potentially reducing response time for emergency services.
One of the main benefits of this new device is that it eliminates the need for drivers to exit their vehicle to place a warning triangle, a practice which has unfortunately cost many people their lives over the years. In fact, the DGT reports that on average 22 people died each year between 2018 and 2022 after being knocked down while leaving their vehicle!
The cost of this new equipment, estimated between 40 and 50 euros, seems reasonable in view of the potential benefits in terms of safety. However, drivers will have to be careful when choosing their model, because only those approved and compatible with the DGT 3.0 platform will comply with the regulations.
This measure will apply to all vehicles circulating in Spain, including those of foreign tourists. Violators will face a fine ranging from 80 to 200 euros, a significant sanction which should encourage compliance with this new rule.
-Soon in France?
The Spanish initiative raises questions about its potential adoption by other European countries, notably France. Currently, France maintains the obligation of the warning triangle, although its use is not recommended in certain situations considered too dangerous.
An adaptation of this system in France could have numerous advantages. It would make it possible to harmonize road safety practices at European level, thus making life easier for motorists crossing borders. In addition, improving visibility and reducing the risks linked to the installation of triangles could help to reduce the number of secondary accidents on French roads.
However, such a transition would require careful consideration on several aspects. In particular, it would be necessary to adapt the legal framework, set up a communication infrastructure compatible with French emergency services, and raise public awareness of the use of this new device.
While waiting for a possible change in French regulations, motorists traveling to Spain will have to anticipate this change. It is advisable to obtain an approved V-16 rotating beacon before any trip to the country from 2026, in order to avoid the inconvenience of a fine and, above all, to benefit from this advance in road safety.
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