Pocketed taillights

Pocketed taillights have been an occasional feature on many vehicles, primarily pickup trucks and vans.

The taillight is recessed somewhat into the bodywork, so as to avoid becoming caught and damaged on loading docks and other proximal obstructions. The 1972-1980 Dodge Ram pickup truck (D-series and W-series) is a perfect example, with a combination of a protected light assembly and a distinctive style (reverse lights on top, quite uncommon) which makes it easy to identify.

It must be noted that a pocketed taillight does not avoid damage to the vehicle; scrapes to the side of the truck are seldom a safety issue, while broken taillights are.