Sadly, it's true that tens of millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This not simply puts one's life at risk and puts passengers among others at risk at the same time, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and in many cases time in jail. In many cases someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system knows this, and is therefore inclined to provide DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment as an alternative to other severe penalties for crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other consequences from the crime, but can decrease the degree of such penalties to a great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in alcohol and drug rehab and is also a first-time offender. Research indicates that lots of folks who do receive alcohol and drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for comparable charges down the road.