Regrettably, it's true that millions of people actually choose to drive an automobile while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. This not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers at risk too, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even prison time. Quite often somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. A legal court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment rather than other serious penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eradicate other penalties from the crime, but can decrease the degree of such consequences to a great extent. Particularly if the person willingly participates in alcohol and drug rehabilitation and is also a first time offender. Research indicates that a large percentage of individuals who do receive drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges down the road.