Unfortunately, the simple truth is that millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 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 typically bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and in many cases prison time. Sometimes someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug rehab instead of other serious consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eradicate other penalties from the crime, but tends to decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly participates in drug and alcohol treatment and is a first time offender. Studies show that lots of those who do receive drug and alcohol rehab for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for comparable charges in the future.