Sadly, the simple truth is that millions of people make the decision to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers at risk as well, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as jail time. Often times somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system knows this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehabilitation instead of other severe consequences for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eradicate other penalties of the crime, but could decrease the seriousness of such consequences to a great extent. Specifically if the individual willingly participates in alcohol and drug treatment and is a first-time offender. Studies show that a large percentage of those who do receive drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for similar charges in the future.