Unfortunately, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so not just puts one's life in danger and puts passengers in danger as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not bring about severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and in many cases prison time. In many cases somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system knows this, and it is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug treatment as an alternative to other extreme consequences for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eliminate other effects from the crime, but tends to decrease the severity of such consequences to some large degree. Specifically if the individual willingly participates in drug treatment and is a first time offender. Studies show that a large proportion of those who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for comparable charges down the road.