From 1 January 2026, Spain will become the first country to mandate the use of the V-16 luminous and connected hazard signal for immobilised vehicles. This device replaces the traditional warning triangles and introduces a safer, more modern approach to vehicle breakdown signalling.
To clarify the use of the V-16 signal in cases of international circulation, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has published an instruction outlining regulations for vehicles registered in Spain and foreign-registered vehicles travelling through Spain.
What is the V-16 hazard signal?
The V-16 hazard signal is a luminous device designed to improve safety during vehicle breakdowns or accidents. The traditional warning triangle requires drivers to exit their vehicles and place them on the road. However, the V-16 can be activated without leaving the vehicle, reducing personal risk.
The device became an approved alternative to warning triangles in Spain on 1 July 2021. However, from 1 January 2026, its version equipped with connectivity will be mandatory for all passenger cars, mixed vehicles, buses, and goods transport vehicles operating in Spain.
V-16 and international circulation
The Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968) and the Geneva Convention (1949) set international standards for vehicle equipment during international circulation. Both conventions permit countries to require vehicles to carry either traditional warning triangles or “any other device of equal effectiveness” approved by the country of registration.
Vehicles registered in other countries travelling in Spain
- Vehicles registered abroad will comply with Spanish regulations if they carry and use the warning triangles or any other signalling device approved in their home country.
Spanish vehicles travelling abroad
- Vehicles registered in Spain will meet international regulations during travel in other signatory countries by carrying the V-16 luminous and connected device. They will not be required to carry warning triangles.
Why is the V-16 being made mandatory?
The V-16 hazard signal enhances safety by allowing drivers to signal their vehicle’s position during breakdowns without exiting their car. This reduces the risk of accidents, particularly on motorways and busy roads, where placing traditional triangles can be dangerous.
Additionally, the connected version of the V-16 device will transmit real-time location data to Spain’s DGT 3.0 traffic management system. This connectivity provides authorities with immediate information about vehicle immobilisation, improving road safety and enabling quicker responses to emergencies.
Regulations for immobilised vehicles in Spain
The DGT has issued specific guidance on the use of the V-16 device for vehicles in international circulation:
Foreign-registered vehicles in Spain
Vehicles registered in other countries can use warning triangles or equivalent devices approved by their home country’s regulations.
Spanish-registered vehicles abroad
Vehicles with the V-16 signal comply with international rules in signatory countries of the Geneva or Vienna Conventions, without needing traditional warning triangles.
International traffic agreements
Spain’s regulations align with international agreements to promote uniform standards for road safety and vehicle signalling:
- Geneva Convention (1949): Covers international traffic but lacks specific provisions for immobilised vehicles.
- Vienna Convention (1968): Allows countries to require signalling devices such as warning triangles or alternatives approved by the country of registration.
The V-16 device meets these requirements, ensuring compliance for Spanish vehicles travelling internationally while maintaining safety standards.
What does this mean for drivers?
For drivers in Spain, the V-16 signal will be the only legally accepted hazard device from January 2026. This applies to all passenger cars, buses, mixed vehicles, and goods transport vehicles. Foreign-registered vehicles entering Spain can continue using their home country’s approved devices, including warning triangles.
With this update, Spain sets a precedent in Europe, emphasising innovation and safety in road traffic regulations. The transition to the V-16 hazard signal reflects a modern approach to minimising risks during vehicle breakdowns. Consequently, it improves overall road safety.