Abstract:
A safety light system is incorporated into the tailgate of a pickup truck. The safety light is incorporated into the tailgate and is illuminated when the tailgate is in a lowered or horizontal position and when either the ignition switch is in the on position, the parking lights are turned on, or both. The safety light can be positioned either on the top edge-rail of the tailgate, as a slide-out unit placed in a pocket with the top edge-rail of the tailgate, or as a rotating assembly incorporated into the outer sheet metal of the tailgate. Additional safety lights can be incorporated into the sides of the tailgate assembly. An optional feature includes the ability to pull the safety light out from the tailgate and secure the safety light to an object that extends beyond the length of the pickup bed. Alternatively, the safety lights can be installed in or on a bed extension apparatus. The safety light can additionally include the features of a standard taillight, comprising brake lights and or turn signal indicators. Alternates include reflective tape and a pullout feature from other locations. A pullout section can also provide a step for accessing the bed.

Description:
RELATED PATENT APPLICATION(S) 
     The application claims priority to provisional patent application 60/793,849 filed on Apr. 20, 2006, provisional patent application 60/742,471 filed on Dec. 5, 2005 and, provisional patent application 60/739,069 filed on Nov. 22, 2005 all of which are incorporated herein by reference while adding additional matter herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a tailgate safety light for a pickup truck, more specifically an indicator light integrated into the top of the tailgate. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     It is a common practice to position a tailgate of a pickup truck in a horizontal position when carrying loads that are longer than the internal length of the pickup bed. When carrying such a load, the user normally couples a red material to the end of the load to indicate to others of the extended length and location of the end of the load. 
     Several issues arise when positioning the tailgate of a pickup truck in a horizontal position. The first issue is the loss of protection by the bumper. Another being the potential for an accident wherein a vehicle behind the pickup truck would run into the carried load or the horizontal tailgate. On darker color trucks, it is more difficult to recognize when a tailgate is in a horizontal position at night. On a lighter color truck, it is more difficult to recognize when a tailgate is in a horizontal position during daylight. This is critical from both a rear view and a side view. 
     Pickup Trucks have been evolving. Pickup Trucks previously comprised of two doors, a bench seat, and a bed length of 8 feet. Current design of pickup trucks are directed towards four doors, a luxury interior, and a shorter, somewhere between a 5½ and 6½ foot bed length. This change is directed more users to drive with the tailgate down. 
     A large number of states require red flags being at least 1 square foot be attached to objects that project 4 feet or more beyond the end of a vehicle. Additionally, a light or reflector is required to be attached to the object after dusk. 
     Fox (U.S. Pat. No. 6,799,873) teaches a third brake light, placing a “U” shaped attachment over the top edge of the tailgate. Fox is limited in a non-permanent item. The teachings need to be removable as it is highly susceptible to damage when loading cargo into the pickup bed, as it is taught to be an elevated object. Fox further teaches a unit that is only a third brake light assembly, similar to those integrated into current vehicles. Third brake lights are only illuminated when pressure is applied to the brakes. Therefore, Fox is teaching a means for additionally notifying another driver that the vehicle is braking. 
     What is desired is a tailgate safety light system, providing other drivers a means for warning them that the tailgate is in a horizontal position and further providing others with the location of the end of the tailgate/extended load. 
     When a tailgate is up (vertical), the rearmost dimension of a vehicle is normally the bumper. When the tailgate is lowered (horizontal), the rearmost dimension of a vehicle is the top edge of the tailgate. When the tailgate is lowered, a vehicle containing rear proximity sensors no longer references the most rearward dimension of the vehicle. 
     What is desired is a means for utilizing said rear proximity sensors to reference the rearmost dimension of the vehicle, more so as the rearmost point changes. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight positioned proximate the top surface of the tailgate. 
     A second aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight positioned within a recess within said top surface of the tailgate. 
     A third aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight wherein said taillight remains illuminated when the tailgate is in a horizontal position. 
     A fourth aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight wherein said taillight remains illuminated when the tailgate is in a horizontal position and the ignition switch is turned on. 
     A fifth aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight wherein said taillight comprising two illumination levels, a low level and a high level. 
     A sixth aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight wherein said taillight comprising two illumination levels, a low level and a high level, wherein said taillight is wired to further indicate when the vehicle is braking. 
     A seventh aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight wherein said taillight comprising two illumination levels, a low level and a high level, wherein said taillight is wired to further indicate when the vehicle is braking. 
     An eighth aspect of the present invention is a tailgate comprising a taillight wherein said taillight comprising two illumination levels, a low level and a high level, wherein said taillight is wired to further indicate desired vehicle turning direction. 
     A ninth aspect of the present invention is a device comprising a sensor, wherein said sensor indicates when said tailgate is positioned in a horizontal position. 
     An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a device comprising a sensor, wherein said sensor indicates when said tailgate is positioned in a horizontal position, said sensor being a tilt indicator. 
     A twelfth aspect of the present invention is a device comprising a sensor, wherein said sensor indicates when said tailgate is positioned in a horizontal position, said sensor being a switch which changes state when the tailgate is rotated away from the sidewall of the bed of the pickup truck. 
     A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is wherein said taillight is of an incandescent bulb. 
     A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is wherein said taillight is of at least on of an LED and a plurality of LED&#39;s. 
     A fifteenth aspect of the present invention utilizes a hinged light, wherein said hinged light is parallel and flush to the tailgate when the tailgate is upright. When the tailgate is rotated into a horizontal position, the safety light assembly rotates away from the sheet metal of the tailgate, maintaining a vertical position, but is then hanging from and perpendicular to the horizontal tailgate. 
     A sixteenth aspect of the present invention utilizes a slide-able safety light assembly; wherein said slide-able safety light assembly is vertical and inserted into the tailgate from the top edge of the tailgate when the tailgate is upright. When the tailgate is rotated into a horizontal position, the user would slide the slide-able safety light assembly out from within the tailgate, maintaining a position parallel to the tailgate, but a portion containing the light is then rotated into a position which is perpendicular to the horizontal tailgate. 
     A seventeenth aspect of the present invention utilizes a temporary holding mechanism to temporarily hold the light in the desired position. An example secures the rotating portion of the safety light in a vertical position when the tailgate is in a horizontal position, thus maintaining the light steady over bumps. 
     An eighteenth aspect of the present invention utilizes a temporary holding mechanism to temporarily hold the light in the desired position, wherein said temporary holding mechanism comprising a ball and spring. 
     A nineteenth aspect of the present invention incorporates lights into the outboard side of the tailgate, wherein said lights are used to notify other drivers oblique to the direction of travel of subject vehicle that the tailgate is in a lowered position, and where the end of the tailgate is. 
     A twentieth aspect of the present invention incorporates lights into a tailgate bed extension apparatus which is utilized to extend the bed length of the pickup truck. Such tailgate bed extension apparatus can comprise any known such designs. 
     A twenty-first aspect of the present invention incorporates a removable tailgate safety light assembly, wherein said removable tailgate safety light assembly is then temporarily coupled to an object that overhangs the rear edge of the pickup truck bed. 
     A twenty-second aspect of the present invention provides a method for compensating for a change in the rearmost position of a pickup truck. It is recognized that the same method can be applied to other vehicles such as Sport Utility Vehicles. 
     A twenty-third aspect of the present invention is the utilization of reflectors behind an illumination source to assist in directing the highest light intensity output. 
     A twenty-forth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of at least one of a red lens and an amber lens. 
     A twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of at least one of a red-colored bulb/LED and an amber-colored bulb/LED. 
     A twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention incorporates a removable tailgate safety light assembly, wherein said removable tailgate safety light assembly is provided power via at least one of retractable wires and rechargeable battery power. 
     A twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention provides a method for compensating for a change in the rearmost position of a pickup truck for a rear proximity sensing apparatus, wherein said method recognizes when the tailgate is in a horizontal orientation. The system contains at least two calibration factors: 1) Tailgate up and 2) tailgate down. When said tailgate is in a horizontal orientation, the system utilizes a tailgate down calibration factor for the rear proximity sensors—to determine the distance from an object to the furthest most point of the lowered tailgate. When said tailgate is in a vertical orientation, the system utilizes a tailgate up calibration factor for the rear proximity sensors—to determine the distance from an object to the furthest most point of the vehicle—normally the rear bumper. 
     A twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention is the incorporation of rear proximity sensors into the top edge of a tailgate. 
     A twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of a reflective medium to replace said tailgate safety lights for at least one of the tailgate safety light features. 
     A thirtieth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of reflective medium on the side of said tailgate. 
     A thirty-first aspect of the present invention is the utilization of reflector tape as said reflective medium. 
     A thirty-second aspect of the present invention is the utilization of a glass reflector as said reflective medium. 
     A thirty-third aspect of the present invention is the utilization of a plastic reflector as said reflective medium. 
     A thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion of said safety features in or onto a tailgate protective apparatus. 
     A thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion of said safety features in or onto a molded tailgate protective apparatus. 
     A thirty-sixth aspect of the present invention is the utilization of a tailgate safety light that is visible from both the rear of the tailgate and the top of the tailgate. 
     A thirty-seventh aspect of the present invention is a tailgate safety light, said tailgate safety light comprising an elongated illumination section and at least one end illumination section. 
     A thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention is a tailgate safety light, said tailgate safety light comprising a removable assembly and a securing member. 
     A thirty-ninth aspect of the present invention is a tailgate safety light, said tailgate safety light comprising a removable assembly, a securing member, and a spring release member. 
     A fortieth aspect of the present invention is a reflective medium, wherein said reflective medium is of any color. 
     A forty-first aspect of the present invention is a tailgate safety light, said tailgate safety light being of any legal color, including amber, red, green, blue, and the like. 
     A forty-second aspect of the present invention is a pullout safety apparatus, wherein said pullout safety apparatus is an assembly that couples to the hitch receiver. 
     A forty-third aspect of the present invention is a pullout safety apparatus, wherein said pullout safety apparatus is an assembly that couples to the hitch receiver and wherein power is provided by a trailer wiring coupler. 
     A forty-fourth aspect of the present invention is an assembly process of potting at least one LED to improve reliability. 
     A forty-fifth aspect of the present invention is an assembly process of molding in at least one LED. 
     A forty-sixth aspect of the present invention is a pull out step. 
     A forty-seventh aspect of the present invention is a pull out step, wherein said pullout step is stored within a tailgate. 
     A forty-eighth aspect of the present invention is a pull out step, wherein said pullout step is stored within a tailgate and pulls out from the top edge of the tailgate. 
     A forty-ninth aspect of the present invention is a pull out step, wherein said pullout step is stored within a tailgate, wherein said pullout step further comprising a taillight. 
     A fiftieth aspect of the present invention is a pull out step, wherein said pull out step comprising a hinged section. 
     A fifty-first aspect of the present invention is a pull out step, wherein said pull out step comprising a hinged section and a locking mechanism, wherein said locking mechanism secures said pull out step in a vertical orientation. 
     A fifty-second aspect of the present invention is a tailgate taillight comprising artwork. 
     A fifty-third aspect of the present invention is a tailgate taillight comprising a logo, such as the manufacturer logo. 
     A fifty-fourth aspect of the present invention is a pull out extension, wherein said pull out extension pulls out from the center of the top edge of a vehicle tailgate to provide support for longer objects. 
     A fifty-fifth aspect of the present invention is a pull out extension, wherein said pull out extension pulls out from the center of the top edge of a vehicle tailgate to provide support for longer objects, incorporating a taillight. 
     It is recognized that the pullout apparatus can be utilized on any type of vehicle. Further, the pullout apparatus can be incorporated into the factory taillight, inside wall of a pickup truck bed, and the like. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a pickup truck bed illustrating the present invention in a first embodiment with the tailgate in a vertical position; 
         FIG. 2  is an isometric view of a pickup truck bed illustrating the present invention in the first embodiment with the tailgate in a horizontal position; 
         FIG. 3  is an isometric view of the tailgate comprising the first embodiment of the present invention in more detail; 
         FIG. 4  is flow diagram presenting the functionality of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is an isometric view of the tailgate comprising a second embodiment of the present invention with the tailgate in a vertical position; 
         FIG. 6  is an isometric view of the tailgate comprising the second embodiment of the present invention with the tailgate in a horizontal position; 
         FIG. 7  is an isometric view of the tailgate comprising a third embodiment of the present invention with the tailgate in a horizontal position; 
         FIG. 8  is an isometric view of the tailgate comprising tailgate side safety light; 
         FIG. 9  is an isometric view of a removable tailgate safety light assembly for use in conjunction with objects that extend beyond the rear edge of the pickup truck bed; 
         FIG. 10  is an isometric view of one example of a tailgate bed extending apparatus incorporating a tailgate safety light assembly; 
         FIG. 11  is a flow diagram illustrating the steps of distance compensating rear proximity sensors when the rearmost dimension of a vehicle changes, such as when a tailgate is lowered; 
         FIG. 12  is an isometric view illustrating a distance compensating rear proximity sensor system, wherein the tailgate is in a closed position; 
         FIG. 13  is an isometric view illustrating a distance compensating rear proximity sensor system, wherein the tailgate is in an open position. 
         FIG. 14  is an isometric view illustrating an alternate embodiment of the present invention, utilizing reflective material; 
         FIG. 15  is an isometric view illustrating another alternate embodiment of the present invention, positioning said safety lights within a tailgate protective cover; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates an alternate embodiment for said pullout safety light in a stored position; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates an alternate embodiment for said pullout safety light in an in-use position; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a closer view of said pullout safety light providing additional details; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a red flag with removable reflector tape sections; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a slide-able, pullout tailgate step positioned within the tailgate; and 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a slide-able, pullout tailgate extension positioned within the tailgate. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a Pickup truck bed comprising a vehicle storage area  10 . The vehicle storage area  10  comprises a contained storage area boundary that is created by two storage area sidewalls  12 , a storage area front wall  14 , and a vehicle tailgate  18 . The vehicle tailgate  18  is shown in a vertical or secured position. A bed rim  16  surrounds the upper edge of the vehicle storage area  10 . A tailgate top surface  30  completes the upper perimeter of said vehicle storage area  10 . The view further illustrates standard taillight(s)  28 . The view further illustrates a rear bumper  20  that is commonly considered a standard component of a pickup truck or similar vehicle. Alternatively, a rear valance can replace the rear bumper  20 . A pair of tailgate safety light(s)  32  is installed inside said tailgate top surface  30  in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. Said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are not illuminated when said vehicle tailgate  18  is in the vertical or closed position, as shown. It is recognized that although a pair of tailgate safety light(s)  32  are the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the number or placement of said tailgate safety light(s)  32  should not circumvent the spirit and intent of the present invention. 
       FIG. 2  is an isometric view of the vehicle storage area  10  illustrating the present invention in an “in-use” orientation, wherein said vehicle tailgate  18  is rotated into a horizontal or lowered position. The vehicle tailgate  18  is hinged such that said vehicle tailgate  18  can rotate into said horizontal position. A tailgate latch pin  22  used in conjunction with a tailgate latch  24  may be (or is) incorporated in said vehicle tailgate  18  to secure the vehicle tailgate  18  in the vertical position. A tailgate support cable  26  is coupled between an inner edge of said external sidewall  12  and said vehicle tailgate  18  as a means to aid in supporting said vehicle tailgate  18  in said horizontal position. The vehicle tailgate  18  shown in the horizontal or lowered position provides the user with an additional platform for holding objects, generally being used in the lowered position when said cargo is longer than the inside fore-aft dimension of said vehicle storage area  10 . This is a common practice for pickup truck owners. The problem is that when said vehicle tailgate  18  is in said lowered position; it presents a hazard to vehicles around it. The bumper is no longer the first point of contact for an accident. Drivers tend to not pay as much attention to the tailgate, failing to recognize that it is 2.5-3′ closer than normal. In some applications, said lowered vehicle tailgate  18  can in fact obscure the intent of normal warning signal protocols. The present invention addresses the concern and potential safety issue, as when said vehicle tailgate  18  is in the horizontal position, said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are illuminated such to provide a warning to other drivers during all lighting conditions (daytime or nighttime). A vehicle tailgate safety system (present invention) is activated by the inclusion of a tailgate safety light sensor  34  which identifies when said vehicle tailgate  18  in said horizontal position. Said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are illuminated when said tailgate safety light sensor  34  indicates when said vehicle tailgate  18  is lowered into said horizontal position. It is desire-able that said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are illuminated when both the said tailgate safety light sensor  34  indicates such as well as at least one of a parking light is turned on and an ignition switch is turned on. This provides a safety feature when said vehicle tailgate  18  is lowered and the vehicle is either parked or in motion. Additionally, the combination of requirements to activate said tailgate safety light(s)  32  performs the function of simplifying and ensuring the use of the present invention. 
       FIG. 3  is an isometric view illustrating additional details of the present invention. The illustration presents a pair of tailgate safety light(s)  32 , wherein said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are positioned in a tailgate safety light recess  36  located in said tailgate top surface  30 . Said tailgate safety light recess  36  provides some protection to said tailgate safety light(s)  32 , as it is commonplace to rest object along said tailgate top surface  30 . Alternately (or in conjunction with), a protective lens can be incorporated into said tailgate safety light(s)  32  assembly. 
       FIG. 4  is a flow diagram presenting a method in accordance with the present invention. A tailgate safety light operational flow diagram  100  is presented. Said tailgate safety light operational flow diagram  100  initiates with said apparatus incorporated into a pickup truck. Said safety light system is preferably activated upon two conditions: (1) said vehicle tailgate  18  is placed in said horizontal position and (2) the user is using the vehicle. Once installed, in accordance with said first condition: said safety light system monitors the orientation of said vehicle tailgate  18  in accordance with a tailgate position decision step  102 . Said tailgate position decision step  102  determines whether said vehicle tailgate  18  is in a vertical (closed) or horizontal (open) position as presented in the previous figures. Such monitoring can be accomplished via any known methods of monitoring a position of a door-like object, such as a switch, a proximity sensor, a tilt sensor, a mercury switch, a weighted swivel switch, and the like. In accordance with said second condition: said safety light system monitors the state of the ignition system in accordance with an ignition switch state decision step  104 . Said ignition switch state decision step  104  determines if the ignition switch is turned off or on. This could simply be utilizing the ignition switch to as a switch that applies power (completes a circuit) to said tailgate safety light(s)  32 . Other means can be utilized, any means known by those skilled in the art, such as relays, and the like. If either said tailgate position decision step  102  is determined to be closed/vertical or ignition switch state decision step  104  determines said ignition is in an “OFF” state, the method maintains said tailgate safety light(s)  32  in an off state in accordance with a tailgate safety light off step  110 . Upon said tailgate position decision step  102  being determined to be opened/horizontal and ignition switch state decision step  104  determines said ignition being in an “ON” state, said method applies power to said tailgate safety light(s)  32 , illuminating them in accordance with an application of power step  106  to said tailgate safety light(s)  32 . Said application of power step  106  places tailgate safety light(s)  32  in a low (normal) intensity level state in accordance with a low-level illumination state step  112 . Said tailgate safety light(s)  32  can optionally further comprise two levels of illumination, a low level and a high level. This, two-level lighting, allows for utilizing said tailgate safety light(s)  32  to indicate braking and/or turning. When such optional feature is incorporated, said method further comprising a high intensity requirement—monitoring step  108 . Said high intensity requirement monitoring step  108  is accomplished by monitoring the state of at least one of application of pressure to the braking system and activating a turn signal indicating circuit. When either of said application of pressure to the braking system or activating a turn signal indicating circuit are determined (“YES”), said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are placed in a high intensity level state in accordance with a high level illumination state step  114 . Additionally, when said turn signal indicating circuit is activated, the respective (left or right) tailgate safety light(s)  32  can flash between low and high levels. When both of said application of pressure to the braking system and activating a turn signal indicating circuit are determined (“NO”), said tailgate safety light(s)  32  continue in said low (normal) intensity level state in accordance with said low level illumination state step  112 . 
       FIG. 5  is an isometric view illustrating an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Said alternate embodiment presents a rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  wherein said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  is integrated into a sheet metal skin of said vehicle tailgate  18 . The illustration is for presentation purposes and it is recognized that the details and actual reduction to practice may differ depending upon design. The preferred design integrates said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  into said vehicle tailgate  18  in an aesthetically pleasing manner. One such design would combine the appearance of said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  and said standard taillight(s)  28 , such that the two appear fluid in design. Said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  comprising a rotating tailgate safety light frame  52  utilized to contain a rotating tailgate safety light  56 . Said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  rotates via a rotating tailgate safety light hinge  54  as illustrated in  FIG. 5  herein. Said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  can be optionally secured/released in conjunction with an operation of said tailgate handle  38 /latching mechanism. 
       FIG. 6  is an isometric view illustrating an alternate embodiment of the present invention, illustrating when said vehicle tailgate  18  is in said horizontal position. When said vehicle tailgate  18  is placed in said horizontal position, said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  rotates from a flush position to one that is generally perpendicular to said vehicle tailgate  18  or in a generally vertical position, as illustrated. This embodiment differs from the previously disclosed embodiment in that it further provides a vertical distance between said tailgate top surface  30  and said rotating tailgate safety light  56 . This allows for any material that might cover said tailgate top surface  30 . Alternately, this embodiment is of a higher cost and might not be as aesthetically desire-able by the consumer. It can be recognized that said rotating tailgate While said safety light hinge  54  is clearly illustrated, it is recognized that said rotating tailgate safety light hinge  54  can be hidden, such as one similar to an automotive door hinge. It can be recognized that a switch may be utilized in conjunction with said rotating tailgate safety light assembly  50  replacing said tailgate safety light sensor  34 . 
       FIG. 7  is an isometric view illustrating another embodiment of the present invention. Said embodiment presents a slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70  wherein said slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70  is integrated into said tailgate top surface  30  utilizing a slide-able tailgate safety light pocket  82  for storing/operating said slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70 . Said slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70  comprising a slide-able tailgate safety light frame  72  which contains a slide-able tailgate safety light  74 . Said slide-able tailgate safety light frame  72  slides out of said a slide-able tailgate safety light pocket  82  via a slide-able tailgate safety light slide mechanism  76  and rotates into a functional orientation via a slide-able tailgate safety light hinge  78 . Said slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70  optionally comprising a slide-able tailgate safety light handle  80  for aiding the user in the process of sliding out and returning of said slide-able tailgate safety light frame  72  into said slide-able tailgate safety light pocket  82 . This embodiment provides an aesthetically pleasing design. This embodiment provides protection to said slide-able tailgate safety light  74 . Alternatively, this embodiment requires additional effort of the user to properly position said slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70  when desired for use. It can be recognized that a switch may be utilized in conjunction with said slide-able tailgate safety light assembly  70  replacing said tailgate safety light sensor  34 . 
       FIG. 8  is an isometric view containing the elements of  FIG. 2  and further including tailgate side safety light(s)  60 . Said tailgate side safety light(s)  60  are positioned on the side of said vehicle tailgate  18  providing additional visibility that the tailgate is in a lowered position to the other drivers who may be in a position traveling obliquely to the direction of the subject vehicle with said vehicle tailgate  18 . Said tailgate safety light(s)  32  provide visibility from the rear of the vehicle. When said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are recessed, said tailgate safety light(s)  32  fail to adequately notify drivers oblique to the vehicle that the tailgate is in a lowered position. Said tailgate side safety light(s)  60  accounts for this scenario, increasing the awareness of drivers other than those directly facing the rear of said vehicle to the tailgate position. 
       FIG. 9  is an isometric view illustrating an optional embodiment of the present invention. Said optional embodiment expands the safety features of said tailgate safety light(s)  32 , wherein said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are removable allowing said tailgate safety light(s)  32  to be used as a portable tailgate safety light  86 . Said portable tailgate safety light  86  would be coupled via a portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90  to an overhanging object  85  by the user. Said portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90  can be of any known design and method, such as elastic material, Velcro®, magnets, ties, nails, screws, adhesive, and the like. It would be desirable that said portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90  is stored with said portable tailgate safety light  86 . Said portable tailgate safety light  86  can be powered via a retractable power cable  88  or rechargeable battery. Wherein said illustration presents the light direction being only rearward, it would be feasible that said portable tailgate safety light  86  would be designed such to provide light to multiple directions. Said portable tailgate safety light  86  provides a means for replacing the red material tied to the end of an object. Said portable tailgate safety light  86  ensures that the user has the signaling material available as needed. Additionally, an illuminated object draws more attention than a non-illuminated object. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an isometric view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, alternately integrating said tailgate safety light(s)  32  as tailgate extension assembly safety light(s)  98  into a tailgate extension assembly  96 . Said tailgate extension assembly safety light(s)  98  would comprise the same features as said tailgate safety light(s)  32  described herein. Said tailgate extension assembly  96  could be the “C” shaped assembly as shown or any other of the many known assemblies for accomplishing the same means. 
       FIG. 11  is a flow diagram illustrating an additional safety feature when a vehicle tailgate  18  is placed in a horizontal orientation. Said figure presents the steps of a rear proximity distance-compensating flow diagram  200 . Said rear proximity distance-compensating flow diagram  200  is configured in accordance with a configuration subsection  201 . Said configuration subsection  201  comprising a rear bumper calibration step  202  and a lowered tailgate calibration step  204 . These two steps can be accomplished in any known manner and in an order respective to the method reduced to practice. Said configuration subsection  201  would only be required upon initial installation or a calibration reset scenario of the rear proximity sensor system. Upon completion of said configuration subsection  201 , the multiple calibration proximity sensing method progresses into a general operation subsection  205 . Said general operation subsection  205  comprising the steps in which the method would function during its day-to-day practice. Said general operation subsection  205  monitors the orientation of said vehicle tailgate  18 . A tailgate orientation decision step  206  utilizes a tailgate orientation sensor (see  236  of  FIG. 13 ) to determine the orientation of said vehicle tailgate  18 . When determined that said vehicle tailgate  18  is in a vertical (closed) position, the multiple calibration proximity sensing method utilizes a calibration referenced to the bumper in accordance with a bumper referenced calibration utilization step  208 . When determined that said vehicle tailgate  18  is in a horizontal (open) position, the multiple calibration proximity sensing method utilizes a calibration referenced to said tailgate top surface  30  in accordance with a tailgate referenced calibration utilization step  210 . Once the system has the calibration respective to the orientation of said tailgate assembly, said multiple calibration proximity sensing method monitors the distance from an object behind the vehicle and what is determined to be the rearmost position of the vehicle in accordance with a rear proximity distance monitoring step  212 . Said rear proximity distance monitoring step  212  is repeated until there is a change in the result of said tailgate orientation decision step  206 . Said rear proximity distance-compensating flow diagram  200  can be applied to any hinged or sliding object that changes the rearmost position of a vehicle. The implementation of said multiple calibration proximity sensing method can be implemented by those skilled in the art using any known tailgate orientation sensing mechanism, software for compensating for the calibration, and known proximity sensing technology. 
       FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13  present an isometric view of a multiple calibration proximity sensing apparatus respective to the method presented in  FIG. 11 . The figure illustrates the resultant of said tailgate orientation decision step  206  being said vehicle tailgate  18  oriented vertically (closed). Said vehicle comprising a plurality of rear proximity sensor(s)  230  incorporated in said rear bumper  20 . When said vehicle tailgate  18  is closed, the multiple calibration proximity sensing apparatus is calibrated to use a bumper proximity plane  232  as the rearmost plane of the vehicle. When said vehicle tailgate  18  is open, the multiple calibration proximity sensing apparatus is calibrated to use a tailgate proximity plane  234  as the rearmost plane of the vehicle. The proximity plane change  233  is the distance between said bumper proximity plane  232  and tailgate proximity plane  234 . Without said multiple calibration proximity sensing apparatus, the standard rear proximity sensing system would not consider said proximity plane change  233 , allowing the user to damage said vehicle tailgate  18 . It is further recognized that said plurality of rear proximity sensor(s)  230  can not be oriented to monitor objects located looking vertically between the vehicle and the ground. This limits the application of said plurality of rear proximity sensor(s)  230 . Alternatively, one can deploy heat sensors which will identify objects such as children and animals that might stray under the vehicle. 
     Alternately, one can place rear proximity sensors along said tailgate top surface  30 . One drawback of this alternative is the cost increase. A second drawback is the potential for damage to the rear proximity sensors along said tailgate top surface  30 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a isometric view of said Pickup Truck bed, presenting an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein said tailgate safety light(s)  32  and optional tailgate side safety light(s)  60  comprise a reflective medium, thus becoming a tailgate safety reflector medium  300  and a tailgate side safety reflector medium  302  respectively. It would be desirable for said tailgate safety reflector medium  300  to be placed in a recess of said tailgate top surface  30  to minimize damage and wear to said reflective medium. Said reflective medium can be of any color, preferably meeting any legal requirements. Such requirements may include a color of red, visible at night from all distances within 600 feet to 100 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of headlamps. The preferred location would be to indicate maximum width of said vehicle tailgate  18 . Said tailgate side safety reflector medium  302  would preferably be sized such and positioned on each side of said vehicle tailgate  18 , said tailgate side safety reflector medium  302  being red and visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the side and located at a position proximate said tailgate top surface  30 . 
       FIG. 15  presents another alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein said tailgate safety light(s)  32  are assembled into a tailgate protective top cover  310 . Additionally, the figure illustrates another aspect of the present invention; presenting a tailgate rearview safety light  312 . Said tailgate rearview safety light  312  can be the same illumination source as said tailgate safety light(s)  32 , or a different illumination source. The function of said tailgate rearview safety light  312  would be either simple illumination or consistent with said standard taillight(s)  28 . It is recognized that although not as desirable, a reflective medium could be used as an alternative to an illumination source. Said tailgate protective top cover  310  can be provided as an OEM assembly or an aftermarket assembly. 
       FIG. 16  presents an isometric view of an alternate embodiment to said portable tailgate safety light  86  of  FIG. 9 , wherein said alternate embodiment is a removable trailer hitch projection light assembly  400 . Said removable trailer hitch projection light assembly  400  comprising a removable light assembly  401 . Said removable light assembly  401  comprising an enclosure which presents a primary angle viewing safety taillight  402  and optional secondary angle viewing safety taillight  404 . Power is supplied to said removable light assembly  401  via a removable light power cable  412 . Said removable light power cable  412  is retractable and retracts into via a retractable cord mechanism  406 . Said removable light assembly  401  and retractable cord mechanism  406  can be assembled to a mounting member  408 . Said mounting member  408  is preferably designed to couple to a trailer hitch receptacle  410 . Power is supplied to said removable trailer hitch projection light assembly  400  via a power supply cable  414 , said power supply cable  414  is preferably designed to electro-mechanically couple with a trailer hitch light control connector  416 . This power source configuration provides an illumination sequence to said removable light assembly  401  concurrent with the illumination of said standard taillight(s)  28 . This illustration presents said removable trailer hitch projection light assembly  400  in a stored state. In a slightly modified version, the power can be provided to rechargeable batteries, thus eliminating said removable light power cable  412  and said retractable cord mechanism  406 . Should it be desirable to provide lighting concurrent with said standard taillight(s)  28 , wireless communications can be utilized. Several low power examples include bluetooth, zigbee, and the like. There are pros and cons for each embodiment and the reduction to practice should be that of designer&#39;s choice; not limiting the spirit and intent of the present invention. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates said removable trailer hitch projection light assembly  400  in an in-use state. Said removable light assembly  401  is coupled to said overhanging object  85  via said portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90 . It would be desirable wherein said portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90  is stored within said mounting member  408  when not in use. There are many designs providing the user with a removable light assembly  401  that can be removably coupled to said mounting member  408 . 
       FIG. 18  presents a more detailed illustration of said removable light assembly  401 . Said removable light assembly  401  comprising said primary angle viewing safety taillight  402  and said optional secondary angle viewing safety taillight  404 . Said primary angle viewing safety taillight  402  would be visible along the length of said removable light assembly  401 . Said optional secondary angle viewing safety taillight(s)  404  are positioned on each side of said removable light assembly  401 . Said removable light assembly  401  would comprise of at least one light (not shown, but well understood) positioned within the enclosure. One embodiment would comprise a series of LED&#39;s assembled to a circuit assembly. The LED&#39;s would illuminate and be visible through said primary angle viewing safety taillight  402  as well as said secondary angle viewing safety taillight(s)  404 . The color would be consistent with any legal directives. The color can be provided via either a colored lens, colored illumination source, or both. Said removable light assembly  401  can be coupled via a safety light assembly receptacle  450 . Said safety light assembly receptacle  450  comprising a safety light assembly storage section  451 , wherein said removable light assembly  401  is placed when stored. Said removable light assembly  401  is removably coupled to said safety light assembly receptacle  450  via an interface between a safety light coupling recess  452  and a safety light coupling clip  454 . Said safety light coupling clip  454  is integrated with a safety light coupling clip spring  456 , wherein said safety light coupling clip  454  can be positioned to secure or release said removable light assembly  401  respective to said safety light assembly receptacle  450 . Said safety light assembly receptacle  450  can be coupled to said mounting member  408 , integrated into said vehicle tailgate  18 , or any other vehicle mounting design. Additionally illustrated is the storage of said retractable power cable  88 /removable light power cable  412  and said portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90 . Said retractable power cable  88 /removable light power cable  412  would retract through said safety light assembly receptacle  450 . Said portable tailgate safety light securing mechanism  90  would be stored within said safety light assembly storage section  451  of said safety light assembly receptacle  450 . 
       FIG. 19  introduces yet another safety feature for objects projecting from a vehicle. The illustration introduces a projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500 , wherein said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  comprising a projecting flag material  502 . Said projecting flag material  502  is preferably presented off a plurality of projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  placed in a rolled plurality of warning flags  512 . Said projecting flag material  502  can be of any flexible type material, including plastic, nylon, fabric, and the like. Additionally, said projecting flag material  502  can be made reflective. Said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  is separated from said rolled plurality of warning flags  512  by the inclusion of perforations  510 . Said projecting flag material  502  is of a legally colored material (generally red) for use as a red flag that is tied to an object that is projecting from a vehicle. Said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  further comprising a projecting flag securing aperture  506  placed within said projecting flag material  502 , wherein said projecting flag securing aperture  506  is provided to assist in securing said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  to said projecting object. Said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  further comprising at least one removable reflective material  504 , preferably four (4) pieces of said removable reflective material  504 . This provides sufficient material for the legal requirements of a reflective material on the rear of a projecting object to show the width of said projecting object as well as on each side of said projecting object. Said removable reflective material  504  would preferably be a reflective material with an adhesive backing, wherein said removable reflective material  504  would be removed from said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  and adhered to said projecting object. Said projecting flag material  502  would then be secured to said projecting object such as by tying said projecting flag material  502  using said projecting flag securing aperture  506 . Alternatively, said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  can be coupled to said projecting object include Velcro®, magnets, tie handles, and the like. Said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500  could optionally include advertisement(s)  508 , such as the name/logo of the hardware supply store. It would be more desirable wherein said advertisement(s)  508  are of a color contrasting, reflective material applied to said projecting flag material  502 . 
     An optional warning flag illumination ornament  550  can be provided to the customer, wherein said warning flag illumination ornament  550  comprising a warning flag illumination ornament coupler  554  to couple said warning flag illumination ornament  550  to said projecting object warning flag and reflective material  500 . Said warning flag illumination ornament  550  comprising a warning flag illumination ornament enclosure  552 . A warning flag illumination ornament circuit assembly  556  comprising a warning flag illumination power source  560 , a warning flag illumination controller  562 , and a warning flag illumination apparatus  558 , collectively providing a portable illumination source is placed within said warning flag illumination ornament enclosure  552 . Said warning flag illumination apparatus  558  can be an LED, an incandescent bulb, and the like. The LED is preferred as it is less susceptible to damage by shock and vibration as well as being a lower power drain. To further ensure longevity, the illumination source can be potted or molded into a support material. Said warning flag illumination power source  560  can be activated by storing with a non-conductive material (not shown) positioned in a manner to avoid conductivity between a circuit and a terminal of said warning flag illumination power source  560 . To activate said warning flag illumination ornament  550 , the user would remove said non-conductive material. Said warning flag illumination ornament  550  can further comprise circuitry to flash said warning flag illumination apparatus  558 . 
       FIG. 20  is an isometric view of a slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light assembly  600 , wherein said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light assembly  600  is stored within said vehicle tailgate  18 . Said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light assembly  600  pulls out of a slide-able tailgate step pocket  612  within the tailgate top surface  30 . Said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light assembly  600  comprising a number of components. A slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light frame  602  is coupled to said vehicle tailgate  18  via a slide-able tailgate safety light slide mechanism  606 . Said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light frame  602  is coupled to said slide-able tailgate safety light slide mechanism  606  via a slide-able tailgate safety light hinge  608 , preferably incorporating a locking mechanism (not shown) wherein said locking mechanism secures said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light frame  602  in a substantially vertical orientation. Said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light frame  602  comprising a slide-able tailgate step  614 , wherein said slide-able tailgate step  614  provides a step to aid a person in climbing into the bed of a truck. To ensure safety, a slide-able tailgate step grip section  616  can be coupled to said slide-able tailgate step  614 . Said slide-able tailgate step grip section  616  can be a grip adhesive strip applied onto said slide-able tailgate step  614 , a secondary member mechanically coupled to said slide-able tailgate step  614 , simply a texturing applied to said slide-able tailgate step  614 , and the like. A slide-able tailgate step handle  610  can optionally be included to assist the user in pulling said slide-able tailgate step &amp; safety light assembly  600  out of a slide-able tailgate step pocket  612 . 
       FIG. 21  is an isometric view of a slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light assembly  620 , wherein said slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light assembly  620  is stored within said vehicle tailgate  18 . Said slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light assembly  620  pulls out of a slide-able tailgate extension pocket  622  within the tailgate top surface  30 . Said slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light assembly  620  comprising a number of components. Said slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light assembly  620  comprising a slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light frame  624  and a slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light support bar  626 . A slide-able tailgate extension safety light  628  is integrated into said slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light support bar  626 . Said slide-able tailgate extension safety light  628  would illuminate upon any number of scenarios: when the tailgate is lowered, when the slide-able tailgate extension &amp; safety light assembly  620  is placed in an extended position, when the vehicles parking/driving lights are illuminated and the like. Alternately, a reflective material can be used providing similar, although slightly less effective results. A reflective frame side indicator  630  can be utilize, wherein said reflective frame side indicator  630  is preferably a reflective tape. 
     It is recognized that accessories such as a bed liner or tailgate protector can be utilized; wherein said protector would comprise an aperture for said tailgate safety light(s). 
     Additionally, an indicator can be included inside the vehicle to inform the driver that the tailgate assembly is in a lowered orientation. 
     The illustrations are for presentation purposes and it is recognized that the details and actual reduction to practice may differ depending upon design. 
     The teachings herein depict the preferred embodiment of the present invention. It can be recognized that although the illustration and specification specifically describes the incorporation of a stepgate operating mechanism as described herein, alternative operating mechanism designs, such as slide bearings, different channels, and the like can be utilized while maintaining the spirit and intent of the present invention.