Unfortunately, it is a fact that tens of millions of people make the decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others in danger as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even incarceration. 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 alcohol and drug treatment as an alternative to other serious penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other penalties from the crime, but can decrease the degree of such penalties to a large degree. Specifically if the person willingly participates drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that lots of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehab because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for comparable charges later on.