Unfortunately, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others in danger too, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even jail time. Sometimes anyone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug treatment instead of other extreme penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eradicate other effects of the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such penalties to a large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly participates in drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is a first-time offender. Research indicates that a lot of people who do receive alcohol and drug treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges later on.