Emergency signal devices, such as warning triangles, are one of the most important safety features in a car.
In emergencies, such as breakdowns or accidents, these devices help alert other drivers and prevent accidents on the road. Therefore, it is important to know how and where to use them correctly.
Find out everything you need to know about emergency signaling in this article.
What Is The Emergency Signal?
Emergency signals are visual devices placed or activated in emergencies, when the vehicle is immobilized in potentially dangerous locations. The main purpose is to alert other drivers to the presence of an obstacle on the road and increase the visibility of the vehicle in adverse or unexpected conditions.
What Types Of Emergencies Signaling Devices Are There?
There are different emergency signaling devices on the road, depending on the country and local legislation. These are the most common:
1. Warning Triangle
The reflective triangle is one of the most frequently used devices worldwide. It is a reflective sign in the shape of an equilateral triangle that must be approved and comply with visibility and reflectivity standards. It is placed at a certain distance from the vehicle (usually 30 to 100 meters, depending on the country’s legislation) to warn approaching drivers. In many countries, it is mandatory to have at least one triangle in the car.
2. Flashing Emergency Lights
Emergency lights (also called “warning lights”) must be activated whenever the vehicle is stopped in an unexpected situation on the road.
3. Portable Light Devices (E.G., V-16 Light)
Some countries have already approved portable light devices as an alternative to the traditional triangle. The V-16 light is a flashing device that is placed on the roof of the car and is visible from a long distance, even in fog or heavy rain.
What Is Emergency Signaling Devices For?
Emergency signaling on the road essentially serves to:
- Warn drivers behind you of an obstacle or danger on the road;
- Reduce the risk of accidents due to an obstacle or danger on the road;
- Comply with current legislation that requires their use in the event of immobilization on public roads.
When Should I Use Emergency Signaling Devices?
Emergency signaling devices must be used whenever:
- The vehicle is immobilized on the road due to an accident or breakdown;
- When maneuvers are performed that require the vehicle to remain stationary in a traffic lane;
- There is a need to alert other drivers to a temporary dangerous situation.
What Are Good Practices For Signaling In An Emergency?
Regardless of the country or equipment available, there are universal practices that all drivers should follow:
- Stop in a safe place, whenever possible, off the roadway;
- Turn on your emergency lights immediately;
- Wear a reflective vest (when required or recommended);
- Place the signaling device at an appropriate and safe distance;
- Stay off the road while waiting for assistance.
How Far Away Should Emergency Signaling Devices Be Visible?
Emergency signaling devices must be visible from a distance of between 30 and 100 meters by other drivers, depending on the country and the legislation in force.
In urban areas or areas with poor visibility, it is advisable to adapt the distance to the situation, always maintaining a safety margin that allows other drivers to react in time.
How To Place Emergency Signaling Devices?
The correct placement of Emergency Warning Devices is essential to ensure the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users. To place it, you must:
- Immobilize the vehicle safely, such as in a visible and safe area;
- Turn on the warning lights;
- Put on the reflective vest before leaving the vehicle;
- Place the Emergency Signaling Devices at least 30 meters from the car, in a straight line with the vehicle and in the same direction of traffic;
- Choose an area where there are no curves, trees, or other visual obstacles so that other drivers can see the signs.
Is It Safe To Place Emergency Signaling Devices In Heavy Traffic?
Failure to use Emergency Signaling Devices on highways can cause serious accidents. Before leaving the vehicle, immediately turn on all four hazard lights and put on a reflective vest.
Exit the vehicle on the passenger side, avoiding crossing the lanes. Walk to a safe location to set up the Emergency Signaling Devices.
Is The Emergency Signaling Device Correctly Positioned?
To ensure correct positioning, the pre-signaling device must meet the following requirements:
1. Distance
It must be placed at a safe distance from the immobilized vehicle, at a point that allows other drivers to identify the sign in time to react safely.
2. Visibility
Free from obstacles (trees, walls, barriers) that restrict side or front vision.
Ensure that the Emergency Signaling Device is visible from at least 100m away, even on a curve.
I Don’t Have Any Emergency Signaling Devices. What Now?
If you do not have an Emergency Signal Device in your car, please be aware that you may incur a traffic fine, depending on the legislation in your country.
However, if you have an accident or need to signal a dangerous situation and do not have this safety device, you should:
- Move the vehicle to a safe area;
- Turn on the warning lights and put on your reflective vest;
- Contact roadside assistance.
As soon as possible, you should also purchase an Emergency Signal Device to comply with the law in your country.
