Sadly, the simple truth is that millions of people make the decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others in danger as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically result in severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and in many cases prison time. Sometimes a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders drug treatment instead of other serious consequences for crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in alcohol and drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely eradicate other consequences of the crime, but could decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some great extent. Particularly if the person willingly participates drug treatment and is a first time offender. Research indicates that a large percentage of those who do receive drug treatment for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.