Why is the word ambulance written backward on the front of a vehicle?
Mirror image of word ambulance: Ambulances have the word “AMBULANCE” written in reverse, or as a mirror image, on the front of the vehicle. This is done so that drivers in front of the ambulance can easily read the word in their rear-view mirror and recognize that an ambulance is approaching from behind.
The mirror image is especially useful in situations where drivers may not hear the siren or see the flashing lights of the ambulance. By seeing the word “AMBULANCE” in their rear-view mirror, drivers can quickly move to the side of the road and allow the ambulance to pass safely.
This mirror image technique is also used for other emergency vehicles such as fire trucks and police cars.