Unfortunately, it is a fact that tens of millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so not just puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others in danger too, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always bring about severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and in many cases prison time. Often times anyone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment rather than other serious penalties because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eradicate other consequences from the crime, but can decrease the severity of such consequences to a great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug rehabilitation and is a first time offender. Studies show that a large percentage of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for comparable charges down the road.