Drivers heading into Spain reminded of key change to Spanish road safety rules now in force

Drivers heading into Spain are being reminded of a key change to Spanish road safety rules now in force.

Emergency warning triangles have been replaced by a new electronic beacon, with penalties for non-compliance.

The new V16 beacon is designed to improve safety during breakdowns by allowing drivers to warn others without leaving their vehicle.

The flashing amber device is placed on the roof and uses geolocation technology to transmit the vehicle’s position to Spain’s traffic management system, helping emergency services respond more quickly.

The European Commission's Road Safety Charter website had said the beacon is now mandatory for all vehicles circulating on Spanish roads, with drivers advised to take note of the rule change.

However, Spain's Directorate-General for Traffic says vehicles registered in other countries can use their emergency warning triangles.

It says, "All the Spanish-registered vehicles circulating in another country which is a signatory to any of the agreements currently in force can legally use the V16 connected beacon. It is not necessary to carry emergency triangles. Equally, vehicles registered in other countries which are circulating in Spain can use emergency triangles."

"Todos los vehículos matriculados en España que se encuentran circulando por otro país firmante de cualquiera de los convenios vigentes, pueden utilizar legalmente la baliza V16 Conectada. No es necesario llevar triángulos de emergencia. Igualmente, los vehículos matriculados en otros países que circulen por España podrán utilizar los triángulos de emergencia."

GBC has asked for further clarification regarding the application of the new law from the Spanish Government, and is awaiting a reply. 

Drivers who fail to carry an approved device could face fines of up to 80 euros, although Spanish authorities have indicated there will be an initial grace period.

Motorists are being advised to check that any beacon they purchase is officially approved and to familiarise themselves with how it works before travelling.