Vehicle indicator using side-emitting light-emitting diode

An indicator (20) is provided that utilizes a side-emitting light-emitting diode (30) to indicate the state of a vehicle. An example vehicle indicator is an automobile turn indicator. Other embodiments and features further provide for a conventional light-emitting diode additionally mounted to the vehicle indicator. Certain embodiments provide a cover (50) that protects the vehicle indicator (20) from damage and influences the pattern and/or frequency of light emanating from the vehicle indicator. Yet other embodiments provide a circuit board (32) for converting power from the vehicle's power source to the particular power requirements, a timing mechanism for controlling illumination, and a heat dissipating apparatus (34) for controlling the temperature of the side-emitting light-emitting diode (30). Still other embodiments provide an indicator (20) that directs light toward the vehicle operator.