Unfortunately, it's true that millions of people make the decision 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 in danger also, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not lead to serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as prison time. Quite often anyone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug rehab instead of other severe consequences for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other consequences of the crime, but could decrease the seriousness of such consequences to some large degree. Particularly if the person willingly participates drug rehabilitation and is also a first time offender. Research has shown that lots of individuals who do receive drug rehab because of a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for comparable charges down the road.