Regrettably, the simple truth is that millions of people choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others at risk at the same time, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always result in severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines as well as time in jail. In many cases a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol treatment as an alternative to other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eliminate other penalties of the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly participates in alcohol and drug rehab and is also a first-time offender. Studies show that a lot of people who do receive drug treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges down the road.