Regrettably, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing this not simply puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others at risk at the same time, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as time in jail. Sometimes someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment rather than other severe penalties for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other consequences from the crime, but tends to decrease the degree of such consequences to some large degree. Specifically if the person willingly participates in drug and alcohol treatment and is also a first time offender. Studies have shown that lots of those who do receive drug and alcohol treatment for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.