Unfortunately, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. This not just puts one's life in danger and puts passengers and others at risk at the same time, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically bring about serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and in many cases jail time. Often times somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment instead of other severe consequences for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely eradicate other penalties of the crime, but tends to decrease the severity of such penalties to a great extent. Specifically if the person willingly participates in drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is also a first time offender. Studies show that a large proportion of those who do receive drug and alcohol treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for comparable charges later on.