There are a number of reasons why people charged with DWI would like to resolve their case in this manner: First of all, a DWI conviction is very expensive. In addition to court and probation fees (most first-time DWI convictions result in probation), defendants must pay thousands of dollars in fines. There is less stigma associated with Obstruction of Highway, as the general public views it as a traffic offense rather than intoxicated-related offense.