Unfortunately, it's true that millions of people make the decision to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others at risk too, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually cause severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even prison time. Quite often a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment as an alternative to other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other effects from the crime, but can decrease the severity of such consequences to some large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly participates drug and alcohol treatment and is also a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large proportion of those who do receive drug rehab because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for comparable charges down the road.