A hearse is a special vehicle used to carry a coffin to a funeral or burial. Hearses are typically long, black cars with large windows and enough space in the back to hold a casket. You might see one moving slowly in a funeral procession, often with other cars following behind with their headlights on.

Before cars existed, hearses were ornate carriages pulled by horses, sometimes with black plumes on the horses' heads.

While hearses serve a somber purpose, they're carefully designed with dignity in mind. The long body allows the coffin to lie flat, and the windows let mourners see flowers placed on top. Funeral homes keep hearses polished and maintained as a sign of respect for the families they serve.

Though you probably won't encounter hearses often in everyday life, seeing one is a reminder to be respectful. When a funeral procession passes with a hearse leading the way, other drivers typically pull over or wait patiently, showing consideration for people saying goodbye to someone they love.