Regrettably, it's true that millions of people make the decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers in danger as well, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically cause severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines as well as time in jail. Quite often someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehabilitation rather than other extreme penalties for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eliminate other effects of the crime, but could decrease the severity of such penalties to a large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug treatment and is also a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large proportion of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for comparable charges down the road.