Regrettably, it's true that millions of people make the decision to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing this not merely puts one's life in danger and puts passengers at risk too, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically lead to severe 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 has an underlying substance abuse problem. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug rehabilitation as an alternative to other serious consequences because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eliminate other effects from the crime, but can decrease the severity of such penalties to a large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly participates drug rehabilitation and is a first time offender. Research indicates that a large proportion of people who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges down the road.