Here’s the final session in the series, presented in the same clear, structured format.
This lesson focuses on Night Driving and Adverse Weather, combining all prior skills with advanced hazard awareness.

🌙 Lesson 6: Night Driving & Adverse Weather

Lesson Goal

Prepare the student to confidently drive in low-light conditions and challenging weather, using enhanced observation, speed management, and defensive driving techniques.

Duration

90–100 minutes total

• 25 min classroom / discussion

• 65–75 min on-road practice (evening or early night with supervised routes; may also include practice during light rain or simulated adverse conditions)

Learning Objectives

By the end of Lesson 6, the student will be able to:

1. Adjust driving techniques for low visibility and changing weather.

2. Correctly use headlights, fog lights, and high beams.

3. Recognize reduced traction and apply proper braking/steering to prevent skids.

4. Increase following distances and choose safer speeds.

5. Demonstrate calm, defensive habits during unexpected hazards.

Classroom / Discussion Topics

• Night Driving Basics

  • Headlight settings (low vs. high beam).

  • Proper use of dashboard lighting to reduce glare.

  • Eye movement to avoid “night blindness” from oncoming headlights.

• Weather-Specific Techniques

  • Rain: Hydroplaning risk, wiper/defroster use.

  • Fog: Low beams only, slower speeds, avoiding sudden lane changes.

  • Snow/Ice: Gentle steering/braking, increased stopping distance.

  • Wind: Adjusting for gusts, especially near large trucks.

• Defensive Strategies

  • Slowing before curves or intersections.

  • Identifying “escape routes” when traction is uncertain.

  • Anticipating actions of other drivers with reduced visibility.

• Emergency Preparedness

  • Handling skids (steer in the direction of the skid).

  • Using hazard lights in extreme conditions.

  • Knowing when to pull over and wait for better conditions.

Hands-On Activities

1. Headlight Use & Adjustment

   • Practice switching between low and high beams.

   • Correctly dim lights for oncoming traffic.

2. Nighttime Neighborhood & Arterial Driving

   • Navigate residential and main roads after dark.

   • Focus on scanning for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals.

3. Rain or Simulated Wet Surface Practice

   • If available, practice on a wet roadway or use a controlled sprinkler area.

   • Perform gentle braking to feel traction limits.

4. Speed & Distance Management

   • Increase following distance to 5–6 seconds.

   • Practice smooth, early braking.

5. Skid Recovery Drill (if safe and possible)

   • Demonstrate steering into the skid on a low-speed, controlled surface.

Key Safety Emphasis

• See and Be Seen: Lights on at dusk, rain, or anytime visibility is reduced.

• Slow Down: Drive below the posted speed when conditions warrant.

• Stay Alert: Fatigue is more common at night—take breaks if needed.

• No Sudden Moves: Smooth steering, acceleration, and braking prevent loss of traction.

Homework / Practice Assignment

• Take a brief evening ride as a passenger and observe how experienced drivers handle glare, curves, and braking.

• Note at least three changes in technique compared to daytime driving.

Instructor Notes

• Schedule near dusk so students can experience the transition from daylight to night.

• Use lightly traveled roads first, then gradually introduce busier streets.

• If real rain or fog is not available, discuss “what if” scenarios and review the driver’s manual for state-specific guidance.

✅ Completion Milestone

Lesson 6 concludes the 6-lesson new driver program. Students who successfully demonstrate these skills are ready to begin independent practice toward licensing and safe, confident everyday driving.

Would you like me to compile all six lessons into a single printable PDF training booklet for easy handouts and recordkeeping?