Sadly, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so not merely puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others in danger as well, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as time in jail. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment rather than other extreme consequences because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other effects of the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such consequences to a large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in drug rehabilitation and is also a first-time offender. Studies show that lots of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation because of a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.