Unfortunately, the simple truth is that millions of people actually choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing this not simply puts one's life in danger and puts passengers at risk as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even incarceration. Often times somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment as an alternative to other extreme consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eradicate other penalties from the crime, but tends to decrease the degree of such penalties to some great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in drug treatment and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large percentage of folks who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.