Sadly, the simple truth is that tens of millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Doing so not merely puts one's life in danger and puts passengers among others in danger also, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will almost always cause severe penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, fines and also incarceration. Often times a person who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse challenge. A legal court system understands this, and is therefore inclined to offer DUI and DWI Offenders alcohol and drug treatment instead of other severe penalties for their crime. Agreeing or obliging to participate in drug and alcohol treatment as a DUI/DWI Offender may not completely get rid of other penalties of the crime, but can decrease the degree of such consequences to some great extent. Particularly if the individual willingly takes part in drug and alcohol rehabilitation and is also a first-time offender. Research indicates that a large proportion of individuals who do receive alcohol and drug rehabilitation for a DUI/DWI offense avoid the courts for similar charges later on.