Unfortunately, it is a fact that tens of millions of people make the decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing this not simply puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others in danger too, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even time in jail. Often times somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse problem. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehab rather than other extreme consequences for crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eliminate other penalties from the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such consequences to some large degree. Particularly if the person willingly takes part in drug and alcohol treatment and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large proportion of those who do receive drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.