Regrettably, it is a fact that 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 in danger and puts passengers and others at risk too, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always lead to severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and also time in jail. Quite often someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying drug abuse issue. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment instead of other serious consequences for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely get rid of other penalties of the crime, but sometimes decrease the severity of such consequences to some great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug rehab and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large proportion of those who do receive drug and alcohol rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.