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Now that January 1 is just around the corner and V-16 beacon lights will replace the old triangles as the only legal way to indicate a road emergency or breakdown, many drivers have already bought their DGT-approved device. It’s a smart move to get ahead of the game, as motorists in Spain could be fined for not having a working V-16 from next month.

 

But as with all new traffic rules, it seems the regulations have thrown up more questions than answers for drivers, and one key query is how to get the new beacons up and running before the deadline. In fact, many drivers are wondering how to test out their little devices without having a tow truck turning up on their doorstep.

 

The DGT (Directorate General of Traffic) has weighed in on this one, reassuring that it’s perfectly OK to try out the V16 beacons at home. No emergency services will arrive in your driveway.

 

Interestingly, this won't happen even if you break down on the road. You'll still have to call 112 or a tow truck, or use the eCall system included in some vehicles, as has been the common practice up to now.

 

The V16 beacon will simply inform the DGT of the incident via its geolocation if you keep it switched on for more than 100 seconds.

 

Even in this case, the new emergency device will offer no practical help to a driver who’s broken down beyond reporting it on electronic message boards (if the road has them) and on major navigation platforms like Waze and Google Maps. This is simply to alert other road users to possible delays or hazards.

 

As Montserrat Estaca, Head of the Telematics Department at the DGT, explained: "The V-16 replaces the warning triangles and performs the same function, although enhanced by the virtual visibility provided by connectivity, but it does not, under any circumstances, alert emergency services, the police or the car insurance company. That notification is the responsibility of the driver."

 

In short, whether you accidentally press the emergency button at home or while driving, you won't notice any difference.

 

 

In an emergency, if the vehicle is still movable, you should turn on your hazard lights pull off the road onto the shoulder to a safe area. Only then should you perch your V-16 beacon on the roof and switch it on.The light will be visible from up to a kilometre away.

 

The DGT will automatically receive the incident location via the device's connectivity. Finally, if it is safe to do so, you should exit the vehicle; otherwise, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened and call 112 or your insurance company's tow truck service.

 

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Image: DGT