Regrettably, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers at risk too, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not lead to severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even jail time. Often times a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse problem. A legal court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment as an alternative to other extreme penalties for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eliminate other effects of the crime, but tends to decrease the severity of such consequences to a great extent. Specifically if the person willingly participates in drug and alcohol treatment and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a lot of individuals who do receive drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges later on.