Sadly, it's true that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive a vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Doing this not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others in danger also, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically bring about severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as jail time. Often times 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 provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment as an alternative to other severe consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eradicate other consequences of the crime, but could decrease the seriousness of such penalties to a large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly participates drug and alcohol rehab and is also a first time offender. Research indicates that a large percentage of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges down the road.