If a vehicle has a backup light, what color must it be?

Backup lights must be white in color. This specification is mandated to ensure that when a vehicle is backing up, it provides clear and visible guidance to both the driver and any pedestrians or other vehicles nearby. The white color maximizes visibility, indicating that the vehicle is reversing, which is critical for safety. This helps to prevent accidents by alerting those in the vicinity of the vehicle's movement.

In contrast, other colors like red and amber serve different purposes on vehicles; for instance, red is commonly used for brake lights, while amber is typically associated with turn signals or hazard lights. Green is not used for any standard vehicle lights, which differentiates it from the requirements for backup lights. This understanding emphasizes the regulations put in place by safety standards for automotive lighting.