Unfortunately, it's true that millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing this not simply puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others at risk as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and also prison time. Often times somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system knows this, and it is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug treatment rather than other serious consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other penalties of the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some large degree. Specifically if the person willingly participates in alcohol and drug rehab and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that lots of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.