Spain’s plan to replace traditional roadside warning triangles with a new digital beacon by 2026, aimed at improving safety, is facing strong opposition from road safety experts and civil guard officials who argue the move could inadvertently increase accident risks.
The new V16 beacon, which will become mandatory from January 1, 2026, is intended to eliminate the need for drivers to exit their vehicles to place warning triangles during breakdowns.
Critics, including motorists, road safety specialists, and the Unified Association of Civil Guards (AUGC), warn that the decision is flawed.
A primary concern is the beacon’s visibility. When placed on a car’s roof, its light may be obscured if the vehicle is stopped in certain positions.
Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, dense fog, or bright sunlight can diminish the beacon’s intensity, making it difficult for other drivers to identify. Experts emphasize that traditional warning triangles remain more reliable in low-visibility scenarios.
Battery life also presents a critical issue. The beacon’s battery typically lasts only about one hour, raising fears that a vehicle could be left unsignaled during extended breakdowns once warning triangles are banned.
The AUGC has labeled the Spanish traffic authority’s (DGT) decision as “precipitated.”
The organization advocates for the V16 beacon to serve as a complement to, rather than a full replacement for, the established warning triangles.
The AUGC specifically highlights the potential for severe accidents on rural or winding roads if the new system is implemented without the traditional safety backup.