What is a V16 light?
A small, magnetic flashing light placed on the car's roof. It can be seen from a long distance, and because you do not have to walk out onto the road to set up a triangle, it is much safer – especially on the motorway. The light must be "connected": it automatically transmits the car's position to the Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) so that other road users and emergency services can be warned.
Does it apply to you?
- Spanish-registered car – including a hire car: Yes. The car must have an approved, connected V16 light.
- Danish car with Danish number plates: No, according to the DGT, the rules of the country where the car is registered apply when driving across borders. You are therefore still allowed to use warning triangles.
- Motorcycles: Not mandatory, but recommended.
Good advice
- Check that the hire car has a V16 light and know where it is kept when you collect it.
- Only buy lights that are approved and connected – some lights are sold that do not meet the requirements.
- In the event of an accident: Put the light on the roof, put on a high-vis vest and go to safety behind the crash barrier. Call 112 if there are any injuries.
The police have stated that during a transitional period they will issue warnings rather than fines – but there is no postponement of the rule itself.
