Spain's traffic chief Pere Navarro warns of fines for drivers without mandatory V16 emergency beacon

Director General of Traffic Pere Navarro announced that the V16 emergency beacon has been compulsory in Spain since 1 January 2026. He urged motorists to keep the device in the glove compartment for the summer, noting that police will issue a fine to any driver who fails to display it during a breakdown.

Navarro highlighted the beacon’s advantages over traditional warning triangles – it is illuminated, electronically linked to the DGT and eliminates the need for drivers to leave their vehicles. He called the measure a "project of the country" and dismissed political criticism, saying the main problem for Spain is not the beacon. He also warned that misuse could create complications with accident reports and insurance claims.