Regrettably, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people make the decision to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers in danger as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as jail time. In many cases a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol treatment instead of other severe consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in alcohol and drug rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eradicate other effects of the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such penalties to a great extent. Specifically if the person willingly participates drug rehabilitation and is a first time offender. Research indicates that a large percentage of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges down the road.