Sadly, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others at risk as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not result in severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even time in jail. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying drug abuse issue. A legal court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehab as an alternative to other extreme consequences because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other penalties from the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some great extent. Specifically if the individual willingly takes part in drug and alcohol treatment and is also a first-time offender. Research indicates that a lot of people who do receive alcohol and drug treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for similar charges later on.