Unfortunately, it's true that tens of 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 and others in danger as well, but being caught driving while impaired (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always lead to severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and even time in jail. In many cases anyone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying drug abuse challenge. A legal court system understands this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug rehab rather than other severe consequences because of their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol rehab as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely eradicate other effects of the crime, but could decrease the seriousness of such penalties to some large degree. Particularly if the person willingly participates in drug and alcohol rehab and is a first-time offender. Research has shown that a large proportion of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges later on.