I welded angle iron to the top of my bed extender to get it to the full width of my bed, that really helps when hauling two yaks. I also welded brackets for the taillamps on the bottom of the crossbar at the outer edges; I use the taillamps with side markers. They're visible from the rear and sides, and they are protected. I still use a red flag during the day. Here in the Houston area the other drivers tailgate you no matter what you do.