The General Traffic Department issued a press release with Urgent clarifications Before the amount Deceived That circulates About V-16 emergency lightThe device that will replace the triangles as of January 1, 2026. According to the agency, in the weeks before its entry into force false messages multiplied on networks and messaging groups, especially those claiming that the beacon tracks drivers, that it will not be mandatory or that there are heavy fines associated with its use. The goal of the guide is to stop this misinformation and explain how the system actually works.
Goodbye to triangles: a measure of road safety
DGT states that the removal of the triangles is not due to an aesthetic or technological change, but rather a reason Road safety: Every year about 25 people die as a result of being run over after getting out of a car to put them down. The V-16 engine allows you to indicate malfunctions without leaving the car thanks to a flashing light that can be seen from a long distance.
The organization states that other European countries, such as the United Kingdom, have already restricted or eliminated triangles on highways, specifically because of the danger posed by walking on the shoulder.
How a connected V-16 engine works
One of the most widespread false claims is that the beacon records personal data or tracks the driver’s movements. The official memo denies this: The V-16 includes a SIM card and only transmits the device’s location vehicle freezes, And only when the device is turned on.
It does not collect license plates, names or driving habitsThe anonymous information is sent to the national traffic access point. The Spanish Data Protection Agency considers that the system is fully compliant with current regulations. Connectivity is guaranteed for 12 years and is included in the price of the lighthouse. No mobile apps, linked phones, or prior registration required.
Prescriptive nature, another source of misinformation
Another recurring trick states that the V-16 will only be mandatory on highways. The DGT explains that the General Vehicle Regulations It is proven to be used on any road on which the car is parked Due to malfunction or accident as of January 1, 2026. The only exception is motorcycleswhich can be used optionally.
Only approved devices work
The organization also denies the message confirming the authenticity of “Ay Nour.” Regulations require approval of beacons by official laboratories IDIADA or LCOE and appear in the updated list of DGT. There are no connection fees or additional subscriptions associated with the device.
Do I need an application? Does it work without coverage? Call 112?
The guide devotes an entire section to correcting rumors related to the device’s features:
- It works even if there is no coverage: In the latter case it continues to emit visible light.
- It does not connect automatically To 112, to tow truck or to insurance.
- It does not require installation of any application:Any app that is promoted as necessary is a wrong app.
Actual fines: 80 euros, not 30,000
Traffic also denies the penalty figures circulating on social networks, where fines of up to 30,000 euros have been mentioned. The royal fine for not using the lighthouse will be 80 eurosThis coincided with the rest of the traffic signal violations. The memo also states that the V-16 is valid in countries that are signatories to the Vienna Convention, compared to other letters that indicated its use could cause problems outside Spain.
The DGT closes the document by asking drivers to refer only to the official website and list of approved devices, especially now that the obligation will come into force within weeks. The agency insists that the goal of switching to V-16 is to reduce accidents and improve emergency safety, not to create new technological liabilities or complicate the signaling process.