Sadly, it's true that tens of millions of people decide to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not only puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others at risk as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always lead to serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and also jail time. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. The court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment instead of other serious consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely get rid of other consequences of the crime, but could decrease the severity of such consequences to a large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly participates in alcohol and drug treatment and is a first time offender. Research indicates that a large proportion of individuals who do receive drug and alcohol rehabilitation because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.