From today, Spanish drivers face a significant change in emergency road signs. The V-16 connected beacon is becoming a mandatory element for certain types of vehicles, replacing the traditional emergency triangles. The measure, promoted by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), aims to reduce risks in vehicle immobilization situations and improve the visibility of incidents. For years, the installation of triangles has forced the driver to get out of the vehicle, exposing themselves to accidents, a situation that the new regulations aim to avoid with a safer system.
The device, small and equipped with a flashing yellow light, offers a 360-degree visible signal and can be heard more than a kilometer away in optimal conditions. In addition to light signaling, it integrates connectivity which allows the vehicle’s location to be automatically transmitted to the DGT 3.0 platform. This information is broadcast to traffic management centers, variable message signs and mobility applications, creating what the DGT calls “virtual visibility”. In this way, other drivers receive a digital warning in addition to the physical warning on the road, thus increasing the safety of all users.
The compulsory nature of the V-16 beacon comes after a period of adaptation during which drivers were able to familiarize themselves with the regulations and manufacturers approved their devices. Currently, connected beacons are the only authorized means of reporting an incident on the road; Any other system, including traditional triangles or unconnected beacons, is illegal. The DGT emphasizes that this measure aims not only to comply with regulations, but also to prevent accidents and protect the integrity of users in emergency situations.
Mandatory vehicles, placement and operation
The DGT establishes that the obligation to carry the connected V-16 beacon applies to passenger cars, buses, mixed adaptive vehicles, goods transport vehicles and sets of non-special vehicles. Motorcycles and special vehicles, such as agricultural or construction machinery, are excluded due to the nature of their use and the type of risks they present on the road.
The device should be placed, wherever possible, above the vehicle to ensure good visibility. It works autonomously, without the need for a cell phone or external applications: when activated, it automatically transmits the location thanks to its GPS chip and integrated SIM card, with connectivity guaranteed for a minimum period of 12 years at no additional cost. The beacon offers a light signal visible from one kilometer away and a minimum autonomy of 30 minutes, with a battery that guarantees at least 18 months of use.
This combination of light and connectivity allows other drivers and emergency services to be aware of the incident in real time, thereby increasing road safety. Some beacons offer additional functionality through branded or third-party applications, such as recording emergency contacts, sending notifications to family members, or confirming receipt of the notice by the DGT 3.0 platform, although these options are complementary and not necessary to comply with regulations.
Approval and purchasing criteria
To ensure legal compliance, each beacon must be approved by DGT 3.0, include NB-IoT connectivity, an integrated SIM card with a minimum life of 12 years and geolocation. Verification of approval requires identification of the certification code which must begin with LCOE or IDIADA, followed by numbers, as well as the official marking engraved or permanently attached to the device housing. Easily removable labels may indicate that the equipment is invalid. The packaging must clearly indicate that the system transmits information to the DGT 3.0 platform.
These criteria guarantee that the beacon meets legal standards in terms of visibility, autonomy and connectivity. Only devices meeting these conditions are considered valid means of signaling a stationary vehicle; Any device that does not comply with regulations does not replace the triangles and is not legally accepted. The DGT and the OCU recommend reviewing these characteristics when acquiring the beacon to avoid legal problems and guarantee the effectiveness of the signaling system.
Road safety penalties and benefits
Effective immediately, failure to carry a connected V-16 beacon or use an unapproved device is considered a minor offense and may result in financial penalties. The DGT indicated that, in a first phase, it would prioritize raising drivers’ awareness of the regulations before imposing strict sanctions. The main objective is road safety: reducing serious accidents and preventing drivers from being unnecessarily exposed to traffic by placing manual signs.
The V-16 beacon combined with digital connectivity improves the response of other drivers and emergency services, providing immediate information about the incident location and increasing predictability on the road. This system reduces the likelihood of accidents and secondary collisions and replaces triangles, eliminating the need for drivers to exit their vehicles in risky situations. Its widespread adoption should help reduce serious accidents related to stationary vehicles and improve safety and the perception of protection on all types of roads.
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