Sadly, it's true that millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing this not just puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others in danger at the same time, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even prison time. In many cases anyone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. A legal court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug rehab rather than other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eliminate other penalties of the crime, but can decrease the degree of such consequences to a large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug treatment and is a first time offender. Research indicates that a large proportion of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for similar charges down the road.