Unfortunately, it's true that millions of people choose to drive a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not merely puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others at risk at the same time, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually bring about severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as prison time. Quite often a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehab instead of other severe penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely get rid of other effects from the crime, but can decrease the severity of such consequences to a great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug rehab and is also a first time offender. Studies have shown that a large percentage of people who do receive alcohol and drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for comparable charges down the road.