Unfortunately, it is a fact that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others in danger also, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as time in jail. Often times a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol treatment as an alternative to other serious consequences for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other consequences of the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such consequences to some great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in drug and alcohol treatment and is a first time offender. Studies have shown that lots of those who do receive drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for similar charges later on.