Unfortunately, it's true that millions of people actually choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others at risk at the same time, 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 prison time. Quite often somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehab instead of other serious consequences because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in alcohol and drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other consequences of the crime, but can decrease the degree of such consequences to some large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly takes part in drug and alcohol treatment and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large percentage of people who do receive drug rehabilitation because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for comparable charges down the road.