Sadly, the simple truth is that millions of people choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing this not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others at risk also, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and also jail time. Sometimes someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol treatment as an alternative to other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in alcohol and drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other penalties of the crime, but can decrease the severity of such consequences to a great extent. Specifically if the individual willingly participates in drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is also a first time offender. Research indicates that a large percentage of folks who do receive drug treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for comparable charges down the road.