Unfortunately, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers at risk at the same time, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will more often than not result in severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and also incarceration. Often times someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying drug abuse problem. The court system knows this, and it is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol rehabilitation 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 exactly completely get rid of other consequences from the crime, but can decrease the degree of such consequences to a large degree. Particularly if the individual willingly participates in drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is also a first time offender. Studies have shown that a large percentage of individuals who do receive drug and alcohol rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the court system for similar charges later on.