Everything you need to know about the new mandatory emergency light to avoid fines

BarcelonaThe mandatory use of the new V-16 emergency beacon, approved by the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic), starting January 1st, has raised more questions than answers among drivers. The fact that it is an unfamiliar system, never before implemented in any European country, the existence of other similar but not properly approved emergency lights, and the implementation schedule, which does not include any transition period, have generated confusion and discontent among Spanish drivers. The DGT's aim with this new system is to increase driver safety in the event of an accident or traffic incident. The V-16 emergency beacon will replace the current warning triangles using a new automatic connection system that alerts the competent authority of its exact location via a digital platform called DGT 3.0 using a SIM card. The rationale for this new system is to avoid requiring drivers to leave their vehicles when they are immobilized due to a breakdown, for example, and to reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents. The lamp should be stored—and fully charged—in the car's glove compartment so it can be accessed without leaving the vehicle. In case of a breakdown or accident, it should be switched on and placed on the roof of the vehicle.

This emergency system does not require a mobile phone or external connection to operate, as the SIM card and the signal's geolocation system function autonomously for at least 12 years. The V16 signal should also be able to function even in areas without conventional phone coverage thanks to a dedicated network connection. Furthermore, this system will be approved and usable in all countries that are signatories to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (which includes most countries in the world), meaning we shouldn't have any problems driving on the roads of Andorra, France, or Morocco, for example.

However, it's important to remember that the V-16 emergency light system only serves to mark our position; it doesn't transmit any information about our condition or that of our vehicle. Therefore, it will still be necessary to call for roadside assistance ourselves, once it's safe to do so. Regulations don't require motorcycles to use this new system, but they do recommend it.

At this point, it's important to emphasize that the V-16 emergency light is a beacon system with an integrated SIM card that doesn't have access to our personal data or our vehicle's information. The DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) does not collect any vehicle or driver information, contrary to some rumors and misinformation circulating online. It simply sends the exact location of our car when the system is activated, without including the vehicle's license plate or our identity.

How to tell if the lamp is approved

This new system requires an approved lamp that emits light visible from one kilometer away and in 360 degrees, and it retails for around 40 euros. It's crucial to be very careful when purchasing it, as it's easy to mistakenly buy a cheaper one that isn't properly approved.

To determine if this system is approved, buyers should check for the approval number certified by an accredited laboratory (LCOE or IDADA), or for an official sticker or conformity mark. This is a very important point, as there are several cheaper emergency light options on the market labeled V16, without any reference to their connectivity, and these are not approved. The penalty for being involved in an accident without an approved lighting system is 200 euros, and if a law enforcement officer detects the absence of this device during a routine check, the fine will be 80 euros.