Unfortunately, the simple truth is that millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Doing this not simply puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others in danger also, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even prison time. Often times someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system knows this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment instead of other severe penalties for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in alcohol and drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely get rid of other effects from the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such penalties to a large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in drug rehab and is also a first time offender. Studies have shown that lots of people who do receive drug and alcohol treatment for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.