Unfortunately, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This not just puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others in danger too, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always lead to serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even jail time. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehabilitation as an alternative to other serious consequences for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely get rid of other penalties from the crime, but could decrease the degree of such penalties to some large degree. Particularly if the person willingly participates in drug rehab and is also a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large percentage of people who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges later on.