Each driver must affix this light device, the “V-16”, to the roof of their vehicle, in the event of an emergency stop on the roads of Spain.
Illustration / La Provence / Cyril Sollier
On the roads of Spain, French motorists will have to adapt to a new rule. According to a document published by the Spanish General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), a new “danger signaling device” will become mandatory. Called V-16this equipment is a “orange flashing light device“, to affix to the roof of your vehicle to signal it to other drivers, when stopping on the road, in the event of an emergency.
This small device, which is similar to a rotating beacon, thus replaces the warning trianglenotably used on the roads of France to signal, 30 meters upstream, the stopping of your vehicle. In Spain, the signaling distance was even 50 meters until then.
Reduce the risk of an accident during an emergency stop
It is precisely to avoid having to have this warning triangle that Spain intends to impose its V-16, from January 1, 2026. “Currently, in the event of an accident or breakdown on a motorway or expressway, it is necessary to walk on the roadway to position the warning trianglerecalls the DGT. Walking 100 meters on the road involves unnecessary risk.“
With its new system, the DGT hopes “contribute to reducing the number of accidents“, since the signal can be installed “without leaving the vehicle“. The light signal, emitted 360 degrees, “allows the vehicle to be visible from a kilometer away“, compared to 100 meters with a warning triangle.
The device, which should be stored in the glove compartment when not in use, is also connected to a system called DGT 3.0.
A fine provided for in the event of forgetting
In the Iberian Peninsula only, the V-16 will be able to transmit the position of the vehicle on which it is affixed, so “to be able to inform other road users of the presence” of the immobilized vehicle. Variable message signs on motorways can then indicate to other drivers that a vehicle has broken down nearby.
According to the DGT website, do not use this emergency lighting during an unexpected stop can be verbalized. Violators will risk a fine of 80 euros.
Already available in France, particularly in major DIY stores, V-16 signals cost between 35 and 50 eurosdepending on the model. Some are powered by batteries, others by a battery.
