The latest laughing gas simulator from the BOB campaign was used for the first time on September 18, 2025, at HAN in Nijmegen. With a virtual reality (VR) headset, students experienced how driving under the influence of laughing gas distorts their perception and reaction time, causing dangerous traffic situations.
A Whole Experience
The laughing gas simulator was a whole experience. When I was in the VR world under the influence of laughing gas, my vision became blurry and colors were different. I felt disoriented. Driving the car was really difficult. I have never used laughing gas, but I certainly wouldn’t do it now, especially not in the car!”
Student at HAN
Not an Innocent Party Drug
Although laughing gas is often seen as an innocent party drug, its use in traffic often leads to dangerous situations and accidents. Young people are often insufficiently aware of the risks of using laughing gas, especially in traffic. Therefore, with this action, we ask for specific attention to the dangers of driving under the influence of laughing gas.
About the Laughing Gas Simulator
We use the laughing gas simulator in places where many young people come. By wearing a 3D VR headset, participants enter a virtual world. Here they experience what it is like to drive under the influence of laughing gas. Their perception is affected, just as it would be if they actually used the substance in traffic. This way, young people safely experience the consequences of driving under the influence of laughing gas.
Awareness is Urgently Needed
We want to significantly reduce the number of serious accidents in Gelderland. Therefore, we spend a lot of time, effort, and money on good and safe road design. Additionally, the behavior of road users is also crucial for safety on our roads. Therefore, we focus on both road design and behavior to improve traffic safety. With various activities and an online campaign, we draw attention to the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Everyone Home Safely
We know the well-known campaigns like BOB, which are linked to alcohol use. However, the use of drugs behind the wheel is unfortunately also on the rise. That is why we also ask for attention here. Because we want to ensure that everyone comes home safely every day. Without alcohol and drugs.
Province of Gelderland
