Unfortunately, it's true that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive an automobile while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Doing so not only puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others at risk as well, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will usually cause severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties as well as prison time. Quite often someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug rehab rather than other severe consequences for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in alcohol and drug rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not exactly completely get rid of other penalties from the crime, but can decrease the seriousness of such penalties to a large degree. Specifically if the person willingly takes part in drug and alcohol rehab and is also a first-time offender. Studies have shown that a large proportion of people who do receive alcohol and drug treatment because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.