An accident or a simple breakdown on the road can become a critical situation for a motorcyclist. Failure to properly signal your motorcycle exposes you to collisions, especially on poorly lit roads. Therefore, many people wonder: can a motorcycle have an emergency warning light? And are motorcycles required to have emergency lights like cars starting in 2026?
Below, we'll answer all your questions and show you why carrying an emergency light like Help Flash is a decision that can make all the difference.
What is an emergency signal on motorcycles?
The emergency signal on a motorcycle is a system that alerts other drivers to a dangerous situation or an unexpected stop. In cars, it's activated by flashing lights and, until recently, by placing warning triangles.
Motorcycles, on the other hand, have historically had fewer signaling resources due to limited storage space. Fortunately, the emergence of V16 devices like Help Flash has opened up new and effective signaling possibilities for both two- and four-wheeled vehicles .
Can motorcycles have an emergency signal?
Yes, a motorcycle can have an emergency warning light, although unlike four-wheeled vehicles, it is not mandatory to have a V16 warning light in January 2026. In this case, they are considered complementary and legal solutions to improve your safety.
Types of emergency signals on motorcycles
Currently, the most common signals that a motorcycle can use in emergency situations are:
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Simultaneous flashing lights , also called warning lights, if your motorcycle allows it (not common in all models).
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Analog V16 beacons, such as Help Flash, which are automatically activated when attached to a metal surface.
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Connected V16 beacons , such as Help Flash IoT, which send the anonymous location of the incident to the DGT 3.0 traffic cloud to alert other drivers of the incident and thus anticipate danger.
This type of V16 beacon is increasingly present on two-wheeled vehicles due to its practicality.
Importance of having an emergency signal for motorcycles
The statistics speak clearly:
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70% of accidents on interurban roads occur at dusk or at night.
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90 % of these occur on roads without sufficient lighting .
Because it doesn't have a passenger compartment like a car, a motorcycle stopped on the road is much more vulnerable . An emergency light makes you visible from 1 km away and in 360°, drastically reducing the risk of a secondary accident.
A motorcycle stopped on the shoulder or roadway is difficult to see, especially at night or in bad weather. Having a visible emergency signal can:
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Avoid run-overs or collisions.
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Improve visibility while waiting for assistance.
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Warn other drivers from a distance.
What types of emergency signals can motorcycles use?
Although motorcycles are not required to carry warning triangles like cars, they can use devices such as Help Flash , an approved, compact, 360º emergency light.
And if you choose the connected version, Help Flash IoT , your location is sent to the DGT 3.0 cloud and other vehicles are alerted instantly.
Are motorcycles required to have mandatory V16 hazard lights in 2026?
No. Motorcycles and mopeds are not included in the obligation to carry V16 lights connected in 2026 , according to the regulations of the General Directorate of Traffic.
This legal change affects only passenger cars, vans, and other four-wheeled vehicles. However, the DGT itself expressly recommends that motorcyclists reinforce their signaling with solutions such as V16 lights due to the high risk of roadside stoppages.
In fact, many motorcyclists now choose to carry an emergency light like the Help Flash for safety , as it activates automatically when attached to the tank and communicates its location to the DGT if it is a connected version.
How to use the emergency signal correctly on motorcycles?
Having an emergency signal is useless if you don't know when and how to use it. Here are some guidelines.
Recommended situations to activate the signal
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If you break down or have an accident and must stop on the road.
- When you need to warn of an obstacle or imminent danger around a curve or in a poorly lit area.
In all these cases, placing a Help Flash light on the tank, seat, trunk, or even the guardrail will make your motorcycle instantly visible from a distance . And you'll be safer.
What penalties exist for misuse or absence of an emergency signal?
Although there is no specific penalty for not displaying an emergency signal on a motorcycle, failing to signal a stop or an accident can result in a fine of up to €200 for endangering other drivers.
Additionally, if you carry an emergency light and don't use it properly , you could also face penalties for misuse of the equipment.
So, beyond the fine, carrying an appropriate emergency signal—and knowing how to use it—can make all the difference in a critical moment.
So, can a motorcycle have an emergency warning light? Yes. And it should. Although it's not required by law, carrying an emergency light like Help Flash can save your life or prevent a secondary accident. It's perfectly suited to a rider's needs: it's compact, lightweight, easy to store, and self-activating.
Remember: a stopped motorcycle without a signal is invisible. One with a Help Flash isn't. Make prevention part of your equipment and continue enjoying the road with greater safety.
