A groundbreaking trial is underway across the south of England to identify drivers using laughing gas. Officers are currently testing a first-of-its-kind roadside breathalyser designed to detect the substance.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police are leading this initiative to tackle safety concerns. This move comes as a response to more people operating vehicles while affected by nitrous oxide. Those caught with the Class C drug for illegal purposes could now face up to two years in prison. Safety experts remain worried about the impact of this substance on local communities and road users.
How the Device Works
The portable equipment was created by Respira Technologies after extensive studies at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. By breathing into the sensor, a person provides a sample that yields results in just a few minutes. This technology can confirm if a driver used the gas within the previous two hours. Current legal procedures can be complex because there has not been a quick way to prove recent inhalation.
Police Statement on Emerging Threat
A spokesman for the forces said: "Driving under the influence of nitrous oxide is an emerging threat to the safety of motorists on our roads. Its use can cause unconsciousness and even neurological damage or death from suffocation of the oxygen supply to the brain."
"Tragically, our officers have already seen deaths connected to drivers who were under the influence of NOS. The innovative device is being tested by our officers to see if it can be used to detect if a driver is under the influence of this harmful drug. If successful, this could lead these motorists to be prosecuted for drug-driving offences."
Growing Issue Among Young Drivers
Acting Superintendent Emma Hart, of the joint operations roads policing unit of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police, said: "There is currently no device available that can prove a driver inhaled laughing gas, making prosecution difficult."
"That is why our forces are leading this testing phase, to break new ground and prove these devices can help save lives on our roads. Nitrous oxide is a growing issue, especially with young drivers who don't understand the harm it can cause, so when we saw the opportunity to test this new technology, we knew how important it could be towards these devices being rolled out across the country."
Tragic Incident Highlights Dangers
The dangers were highlighted by a heartbreaking incident on June 20, 2023, involving three teenagers. Elliot Pullen, 17, and 18-year-olds Ethan Goddard and Daniel Hancock died following a collision in Marcham, Oxfordshire. The driver, 18-year-old Thomas Johnson, was recorded using the gas shortly before the car hit a tree at high speed. This trial aims to prevent similar tragedies by equipping police with the tools they need to intervene.
If the trial proves successful, the devices could be rolled out across the country, providing a powerful new tool to combat drug driving and improve road safety for all.
