Regrettably, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others at risk too, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always bring about severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and also time in jail. In many cases 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 treatment rather than other severe penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other penalties of the crime, but could decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some large degree. Specifically if the person willingly participates alcohol and drug rehabilitation and is a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large proportion of folks who do receive drug and alcohol treatment for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for comparable charges down the road.