Street Smarts is a section detailing about the dangers of nightlife, how to keep yourself out of trouble, and some wise tips in getting around D.C. Here are some thoughts to make sure that everyone has a safe and fun time downtown. Click the images below.

• Remember that traffic is usually heavier during the work day than at night or on the weekends, especially toward the center of the city.
  
  
• Be careful in residential areas. The occasional local will walk right out in front of you just to tick you off.
  
  
• If you're travelling at night, try to take a cellular phone with you, if you can, in case you get lost in an area you think might be shady and don't feel comfortable getting out of the car
  
  
• Otherwise, try to get a second opinion on directions from another driver, gas station attendant, etc. Many of these folks either don't know what they're talking about or are not able to give you directions you will understand or remember. Always, if you have a pen, try to write down the directions so you don't forget.
  
  
• Remember that there are no J,X,Y, or Z Sts. in DC and there may not be any B Sts. either. (Not sure)
  
  
• Virtually every other street in DC is one way. Sometimes you will have to go two whole blocks just to turn around.
  
  
• Drive defensively: some of the drivers in town are bad at best and terrible at worst. Also, cabbies and locals tend to drive faster and more aggressively than suburb- anites- if someone is honking at you, it's usually them.
  

• If you're not good at parallel parking, it might be wise to use a parking garage or take a cab or the Metro if you're going to any of the major nightlife spots.
  
  
• The hardest area, by far, in which to find parking is Adams Morgan. Chances are the only spot you'll find will be ten miles from the bar. Take a cab (Metro does not service Adams Morgan and I haven't seen any garages here).
  
  
• The second most difficult place to park is Georgetown. On some busy nights, it's probably worth it to pay a few bucks to park in the Georgetown Park Mall parking garage, which is right in the heart of Georgetown.
  
  
• When parking along the street, always read the signs. They will tell you if and when you are allowed to be there. If you violate these guidelines, you will probably be tick- eted, especially in Georgetown.
  
  
• Remember that you cannot park in front of fire hydrants or driveways and cannot park at a corner (I think the car has to be at least 10ft in from the corner).
  
  
• Generally, you will not have to pay parking meters after midnight.