An external beacon we use in our car or vehicle acts as a signaling device to indicate our position on the road to other drivers. This significantly improves our safety and that of other road users in emergency situations.
In this sense, we can say that its use is essential in the always unexpected context of a breakdown, accident, or other anomaly that may occur while driving. Although if we drive on highways and motorways, we are not actually required by law to signal our position in case we need roadside assistance (this has been the case since July 2023), it is recommended to signal the incident with a beacon connected to the General Traffic Department (DGT).
We now emphasize the importance of having a bright, connected exterior beacon in our car.
What is an external beacon for the car?
As we just mentioned, an external beacon is a luminous device used on vehicles to signal emergency situations . This type of signaling is easier to use and more effective than current triangles in improving road safety and preventing accidents.
The device emits light to warn other drivers of a vehicle in a dangerous situation. These beacons should be placed on the exterior of the vehicle, as high as possible and as horizontal to the ground as possible. Generally, the roof of the vehicle is the best option.
Importance in emergency situations
In times when time and visibility are crucial, having an effective, connected, and powerful external beacon with a powerful beam will be highly beneficial. In addition to connecting with the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic ), using this type of emergency warning light improves communication with other road users, who will surely know not to approach the danger zone, thereby reducing the likelihood of further accidents.
By emitting light in 360 degrees , a connected outdoor beacon ensures we can be seen from different angles and distances. This way, as we say, drivers can quickly recognize a vehicle in trouble and take appropriate precautions.
By using a beacon of this nature, the driver can remain inside their vehicle if exiting poses a risk due to traffic conditions. This undoubtedly significantly reduces the risk of being hit while attempting to position an emergency triangle.
Types of external beacons permitted by the DGT
We at Help Flash remind you that, starting in 2026, connected v16 lights will be mandatory on all vehicles in Spain. There are different types of beacons approved by the DGT (Directorate General of Traffic), each with specific features and advantages, but none are as highly regarded as Help Flash's v16 beacon with approved geolocation .
In addition to the warning triangles, drivers have:
V16 connected beacon lights
The use of connected v16 beacons has proliferated exponentially over the past year. Their design and functionality have resonated with users, who consider them much more effective than triangles (especially in terms of driver safety).
The connected v16 beacon lights feature the following features:
- Light Irradiation: They provide a 360-degree field of visibility, with a vertical coverage of ±8 degrees.
- Connectivity and Geolocation System: The vehicle's location is activated and sent to the DGT.
- Resistance: They work under any weather conditions.
- Ease of use: You don't have to leave your vehicle to use it. Simply turn it on and place it on the roof.
A connected V16 exterior beacon, therefore, helps reduce the risk of vehicle-related accidents , thanks to its continuous 360-degree light, which is visible to other drivers. It is compact and very easy to store.
Analog v16 beacons
These lights were the first beacons to be introduced, included in the regulations since 2018. They do not have connectivity , but they do provide physical signaling.
Starting in 2021, the DGT (Directorate General of Traffic) included them as legal substitutes for warning triangles, meaning we can choose one or the other.
Connected v16 outdoor beacon: Mandatory from 2026
The mandatory use of V16 lights is based on the need to modernize emergency signaling devices to increase, primarily, safety.
Thanks to a connected v16 exterior beacon, you'll gain visibility and communication , which will certainly reduce the risk of accidents in critical situations. Much better than getting out of the vehicle to set up the warning triangles.
Furthermore, unlike these, V16 lights can be activated from inside the car. This provides simple and safe signaling, which is what the regulatory change seeks.
In this way, the DGT believes the device is in line with technological advances, primarily its connectivity with its traffic management systems.
Misinformation circulating in the media
Although the DGT has explained in detail how the V16 beacons work, doubts remain about their connectivity with emergency services.
It's important to note that the beacon doesn't make an automatic call . To contact emergency services, you must use the Help Flash IoT-compatible ' Incidence App .' By linking your beacon to the app, you can quickly request help in the event of an accident or breakdown.
Meanwhile, when the beacon is activated, it sends your location to the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic), allowing other drivers to be alerted through their navigation systems.
Help Flash approved v16 beacon
Our Help Flash V16 connected GPS beacon combines compact design and cutting-edge technology . With a 1 km range and a high-intensity LED, it ensures optimal 360° visibility.
It's equipped with Vodafone's NB-IoT technology . It offers deep coverage and exceptional battery life, even in environments with limited signal.
When activated, the beacon connects to the DGT platform, transmitting your position in real time for greater road safety. These are the benefits of geolocation linked to advanced technologies that provide valuable information to the DGT and emergency services.
Conclusions
Starting in 2026 , emergency beacon connectivity with the DGT will be a mandatory requirement. This will allow the DGT to receive instant information on the vehicle's location in the event of an emergency. This connection is achieved through a communications network that ensures data is transmitted quickly and reliably.
We've already seen that having a connected external beacon in our car is safer, more effective, and more functional than traditional warning triangles.
If you need more information about v16 devices or have questions about the regulations and the next steps to take to comply, leave us a comment on the article. You can also contact our Help Flash team.
