Today, drivers can use both the classic warning triangles and the V16 Connected hazard light to signal a breakdown or any dangerous situation on the road and alert other drivers. Both devices are allowed as emergency signaling methods by the DGT, although this situation may soon change.
THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF TRIANGLES
Until now, it was expected that the V16 Connected emergency light would become the only mandatory option from January 1, 2026, allowing the driver to place the beacon on the roof of the vehicle without leaving the vehicle. However, the emergency triangles continue to represent a risk for drivers who must get out of the vehicle to place them at a certain distance, which increases the possibility of an accident, and this has caused the DGT to reconsider certain measures.
Recently, Pere Navarro, director of the DGT, has confirmed that they are studying the possibility of eliminating the obligation to use emergency triangles on highways and dual carriageways, following the example of other countries such as the United Kingdom . Thus advancing the ban on triangles that until now was scheduled for the year 2026.
WHAT FACTORS HAVE CAUSED THIS DECISION?
This is mainly due to the increase in the numbers of deaths on the roads compared to last year, which has caused the DGT to seek ways to minimize risks on the road as well as dangerous driving behaviors. No less than in March of this same year, a total of 78 road deaths were registered , compared to 71 in 2022, which represents an increase of 12% . Tragically, almost 20 of them were the cause of hit-and-runs .
All this could mean that the exclusive use of the V16 emergency light would bring forward, by the DGT, the disappearance of the emergency triangles before the deadline of January 1, 2026. With the intention of thus increasing safety in motorways and dual carriageways, where traffic is faster and denser, and there is a greater risk of accidents when getting out of the vehicle.