Sadly, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people decide to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others at risk too, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even prison time. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehab instead of other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other penalties of the crime, but can decrease the degree of such consequences to some great extent. Specifically if the individual willingly participates in drug treatment and is a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large percentage of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for comparable charges later on.