Regrettably, it's true that tens of millions of people choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This not just puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others at risk as well, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always cause severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even prison time. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehab instead of other severe consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other penalties from the crime, but sometimes decrease the severity of such consequences to some great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly participates in drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is also a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large percentage of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges down the road.