Regrettably, it's true 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 and others in danger too, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not lead to serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and in many cases time in jail. Often times someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehab as an alternative to other severe penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely get rid of other penalties from the crime, but can decrease the severity of such consequences to a large degree. Specifically if the person willingly participates in alcohol and drug rehab and is a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large proportion of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges in the future.