Regrettably, the simple truth is 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 in danger and puts passengers and others at risk as well, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always result in severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even jail time. In many cases somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehabilitation as an alternative to other extreme penalties because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eliminate other effects of the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such penalties to a large degree. Specifically if the person willingly participates drug and alcohol rehab and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large percentage of those who do receive drug and alcohol treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.