Sadly, the simple truth is that millions of people choose to drive an automobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This not merely puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others at risk as well, but being caught driving drunk (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically cause serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and in many cases incarceration. In many cases somebody who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately struggles with an underlying substance abuse problem. The court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders drug and alcohol treatment instead of other extreme penalties for his or her crime. Agreeing or obliging to take part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation as a DUI/DWI Offender might not completely get rid of other effects from the crime, but could decrease the severity of such penalties to some great extent. Particularly if the person willingly takes part in alcohol and drug treatment and is also a first time offender. Studies have shown that a large proportion of people who do receive drug rehabilitation because of a DUI/DWI offense avoid the court system for similar charges down the road.