Unfortunately, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people make the decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not merely puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others in danger too, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even time in jail. Often times anyone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying drug abuse issue. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehabilitation rather than other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eliminate other penalties from the crime, but could decrease the degree of such consequences to some large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly participates in alcohol and drug rehabilitation and is also a first-time offender. Research indicates that a large proportion of those who do receive drug and alcohol rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges down the road.