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Spain Enforces V‑16 Beacon Mandate, Clarifies Bus Placement and Penalties

Certified beacons are compulsory, with fines reaching €200 for exiting a vehicle without a high‑visibility vest.

Overview

  • Since January 1, 2026 the V‑16 light is the only valid roadside warning device, and the DGT says drivers who stop and do not deploy it risk an 80‑euro fine.
  • The DGT specifies the beacon should be placed at the highest possible point, preferably the roof, while buses must fit it on the highest driver‑side lateral points.
  • Only models certified by the authorized laboratories IDIADA or LCOE are legally valid, and using a non‑homologated unit also carries an 80‑euro sanction.
  • Article 118 of the General Traffic Regulations requires a high‑visibility vest when stepping onto interurban carriageways or shoulders, with penalties between 80 and 200 euros.
  • Obligations apply to cars, buses, goods vehicles, mixed‑use vehicles and non‑special vehicle combinations, while motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, foreign‑registered vehicles and special machinery are exempt.