Regrettably, it's true that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not only 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 cause severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even time in jail. In many cases somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehab as an alternative to other serious consequences for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eliminate other consequences from the crime, but sometimes decrease the degree of such penalties to some large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug rehabilitation and is also a first time offender. Studies have shown that a large percentage of those who do receive drug and alcohol treatment for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for comparable charges down the road.