Unfortunately, it's true that millions of people actually choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing this not only puts one's life at risk and puts passengers and others in danger at the same time, but being caught driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) will typically result in serious penalties including driver's license suspension or cancellation, monetary penalties and even jail time. Often times someone who has been found guilty of DUI or DWI ultimately has an underlying substance abuse issue. A legal court system knows 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 may not completely eradicate other consequences from the crime, but could decrease the severity of such penalties to a great extent. Specifically if the person willingly participates in drug treatment and is also a first-time offender. Research indicates that a large percentage of individuals who do receive drug rehab for a DUI/DWI offense stay out of the courts for comparable charges down the road.