An optical element for use in a high mounted stop lamp is formed with an LED
light
source mounted on a backing plate. The LED faces in a first direction to emit light
towards a field to be illuminated. A light transmissive dome encloses the LED light
source, the dome having refractive elements directing at least some light emitted
by the LED in a second direction transverse to the first direction. At least one
light guide is positioned adjacent the dome to receive light emitted by the LED
that is refracted transversely by the refractive dome elements. The light guide
includes light directing elements to redirect the transversely directed light towards
the field to be illuminated. In this way the ineffectively directed light is recaptured
and directed expand the lamp's area image to comply with legal requirements.
