🚨 V16 Emergency Light with Geolocation: Everything You Need to Know
Starting January 1, 2026, the V16 emergency light with geolocation will become mandatory in Spain, replacing traditional warning triangles. This innovative device enhances road safety by allowing drivers to signal emergencies without leaving their vehicles, reducing the risk of accidents.
What is the V16 Emergency Light?
The V16 light is a flashing emergency signal designed to alert other drivers when a vehicle is stopped due to a breakdown or accident. It features a magnetic base, allowing it to be placed on the roof of the car without requiring the driver to step outside, significantly improving safety.
Once activated, it emits 360° flashing lights, visible from over one kilometer away, even in poor visibility conditions such as fog or heavy rain.
How Does Geolocation and Connectivity Work?
Unlike traditional warning triangles, the new V16 emergency light is connected to the DGT 3.0 traffic platform. This allows the device to send anonymous real-time alerts to the Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT), notifying other drivers through electronic road signs and GPS apps like Google Maps and Waze.
The geolocated V16 light transmits its exact location every 100 seconds, ensuring authorities and nearby drivers are aware of the vehicle’s presence.
When and How to Use the V16 Light
The V16 emergency light replaces the function of traditional warning triangles and should be used in cases of:
✔ Breakdowns or accidents: Place the light on the vehicle’s roof while remaining inside with your seatbelt fastened.
✔ Traffic jams due to unexpected slowdowns: The flashing signal helps warn other drivers to reduce speed safely.
Why is the V16 Light Mandatory?
Between 2021 and 2022, at least 18 people lost their lives after exiting their vehicles to place warning triangles. The V16 light eliminates this danger by allowing drivers to signal an emergency without stepping onto the road.
When Will the V16 Emergency Light Be Required?
- From July 2021: Drivers can already use a V16 light without geolocation instead of warning triangles.
- From January 1, 2026: Only DGT-approved geolocated V16 lights will be valid, and traditional warning triangles will no longer be allowed.
How to Choose an Approved V16 Light?
For a V16 light to be valid, it must:
✅ Be certified by the DGT (Spanish Traffic Authority).
✅ Emit a flashing light visible for at least 1 km.
✅ Transmit geolocated emergency alerts in real-time.
✅ Have a battery life of at least 18 months.
✅ Provide free connectivity to DGT 3.0 for at least 12 years.
Final Thoughts
The V16 emergency light with geolocation is a significant step forward in road safety, making emergency situations safer for all drivers. With this new system, breakdowns and accidents can be detected in real-time, helping authorities and other road users respond more efficiently.
📌 Don’t wait until the last minute! Make sure you have a DGT-approved V16 emergency light before 2026 to stay compliant and, most importantly, safe. 🚦
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