Sadly, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others in danger at the same time, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always result in severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even prison time. In many cases a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. The court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehabilitation as an alternative to other serious consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely get rid of other effects of the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such consequences to some great extent. Specifically if the individual willingly participates drug treatment and is a first-time offender. Research indicates that a large proportion of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for comparable charges down the road.