Sadly, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not only puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others at risk at the same time, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically lead to severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even prison time. Sometimes someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying drug abuse challenge. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment rather than other severe penalties because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other consequences of the crime, but sometimes decrease the severity of such penalties to a great extent. Specifically if the person willingly participates drug treatment and is a first-time offender. Studies show that lots of people who do receive alcohol and drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for comparable charges down the road.