After the V16 rule change in Spain, are warning triangles still permitted?

Spain entered a new era of roadside security in 2026. The V16 connected beacon is the only signalling device that can be used to legally alert drivers of vehicles that are stopped on public roads due to accidents or breakdowns. Traditional emergency triangles remain legal despite the shift.

The traffic authorities have clarified, that although triangles do not meet the legal requirement for signaling on their own anymore, drivers can still use them in conjunction with a V16 beacon. This is not a ban, but a change in priorities that focuses on reducing the risk of roadside accidents rather than penalizing older equipment.

Why the legal framework has changed in 2026

The new signalling hierarchy is driven by safety concerns

After years of concerns about roadside safety, emergency triangles have been replaced as the primary alert device. On motorways and other high-speed roads, drivers have caused serious accidents by walking along the carriageways while placing triangles.

The V16 beacon helps reduce this risk because it allows drivers to signal without having to leave the vehicle. The V16 beacon emits a bright amber flashing light that is visible for long distances. The connected models can also send the location of the vehicle to traffic management systems. This improves early warnings for road users.

After an accident, can emergency triangles still used?

Legal use versus legal obligation

Emergency triangles are still allowed, but no longer as a replacement for the V16 beacon. A driver who only uses triangles, without also activating the V16 beacon connected to it, is in violation of the current rules and could be fined.

If used safely, there is no restriction on the use of triangles in conjunction with a V16 light. Triangles can be used as a warning measure if the driver can safely exit the vehicle and traffic conditions permit.

Do drivers face fines for using triangles after 2026?

What leads to a sanctions?

The DGT The use of an emergency triangle is not punishable. Penalties are only applied when drivers fail to deploy a V16 connected beacon that is certified during an accident or breakdown.

The traffic officers do not issue sanctions just because the triangle is used or present. The absence or non-use the V16 device is linked to fines. Authorities have emphasized that what’s illegal is to only rely on triangles and not supplement or carry them.

What drivers should do now

Guidance on the current rules

The driver should always activate the V16 beacon Place it at the highest point on your vehicle immediately after stopping to maximize visibility. It is recommended to remain in the vehicle if conditions make it unsafe to exit.

Triangles can be used as a secondary safety measure if visibility is low and if the situation permits, but only AFTER the V16 has activated. The drivers are reminded as well that only V16 devices approved and connected meet the legal requirements.

What happens to the existing emergency triangles in cars

There is no obligation to remove or dispose of them

The removal of emergency triangles is not required in 2026. Many drivers carry them with them, especially those that travel on low-traffic or rural roads.

The possession of triangles inside the boot does NOT constitute a criminal offense. Their presence is legal neutral. The issue only arises if they’re used as the only warning device without a v16.

What drivers will need to know by 2026

• Emergency triangles still legal in Spain
• The V16 beacon must be connected.
• If you use only triangles, it can lead to a fine.
• Triangles and V16 are allowed together
• The focus of enforcement is safety, rather than possession

Roadside safety: a shift in the way it is understood

From visibility to prevention

The 2026 regulations reflect a wider change in the road safety policy. The authorities focus more on preventing motorists from entering dangerous environments than they do on the placement of physical warning devices.

Emergency triangles continue to be familiar and useful in certain situations. They no longer represent compliance. The V16 connected beacon has been the cornerstone of roadside signals in Spain. It provides visibility and real-time transmission.

Triangles are not illegal, but are no longer legal. Compliance in 2026 starts with the V16 and ends with safer driving for all drivers.