Sadly, it's true that tens of millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not simply puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others in danger as well, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even jail time. In many cases anyone 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 provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehabilitation rather than other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eradicate other penalties from the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such consequences to a great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug treatment and is a first time offender. Studies have shown that a large percentage of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.