How high must the minimum total vertical width of stripes be for ambulances?

The minimum total vertical width of stripes for ambulances must be 6 inches to ensure high visibility and safety. This regulation is crucial as it allows the vehicle to be easily seen by other drivers, which is vital in emergency situations where response time is critical. The width of the stripes contributes to the overall visibility of the ambulance, allowing it to stand out against various backgrounds, particularly in high-stress scenarios such as nighttime or inclement weather. Properly marked emergency vehicles help in quickly identifying them and can encourage other drivers to yield the right-of-way, thereby enhancing safety for both the emergency responders and the public.