In the world of cranes we know it well: those minutes you spend stopped on the road waiting for assistance are the most stressful. The new V16 Light has become the best tool to locate you quickly and, above all, to prevent you from taking unnecessary risks.
Here we explain clearly what changes in 2026, how to avoid fines, and what to do to ensure a breakdown is just a minor inconvenience.
When do they become mandatory?
Although we see them everywhere, the regulations on V16 lights now have definitive dates:
Since 2021: you can use them instead of triangles.
From January 1, 2026: the triangles become history and so does the old V16 (those without GPS). Only the connected V16 light will be legal.
Why does this change give us peace of mind?
As roadside assistance professionals, we see every day the danger you run when getting out of your vehicle to place the warning triangles. With the V16, you don’t even have to step on the track: you stick your arm out the window, place it on the roof and you’re done. You stay safely inside the vehicle while we’re on our way.
What a lapse in judgment can cost you (Fines)
Failing to properly signal your car while waiting for a tow truck is not only dangerous, it can also be expensive:
- Failure to report the fault: €200.
- Getting out of the car without a vest: €200 (and you will lose 3 points).
- Using a non-approved light: Up to €200.
An important tip: If your beacon does not connect to the DGT 3.0 platform, from 2026 onwards it will be as if you were not using anything. Make sure it’s the model with GPS to avoid surprises.
Typical mistakes we see every day
To help us assist you quickly, please try to avoid these mistakes:
Buy the cheapest one: If it doesn’t say “with connectivity”, you’ll have to buy another one. Look closely at the label.
Forgetting the batteries: We put them in the glove compartment and forget about them. Check it every few months; you need it to turn on the first try without fail.
Put it anywhere: The higher, the better. If you put it on the roof, you allow us to see you from 1 km away and come directly to your position.
Ignore the expiration date: These lights come with a data plan (usually for 12 years). Confirm that yours is up to date.
You may also be interested in: Towing service in Spain: a complete guide if your car breaks down on the road or motorway
In short: Safety first
The V16 Light is designed so that other drivers and assistance services can see you, without putting you at risk by walking between vehicles. If your car stops, turn on your lights, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and call us, we are available 24/7. Good signage is the first step so we can get you out of there as soon as possible.
