Springfield, NJ – November 21st, 2025 – Today, Virtual Driver Interactive (VDI) announced that the Minnesota State Patrol has deployed new simulators to help young drivers understand and avoid the most dangerous behaviors behind the wheel. The rollout coincided with National Teen Driver Safety Week, underscoring the state’s commitment to evidence-based driver education powered by immersive technology.
Each simulator features VDI’s award-winning Distracted Driving Experience. Within that program there are two modules: Distracted Drive + Impaired Drive — a distracted driving experience that replicates the real consequences of texting, phone calls, and GPS inputs, and an impaired driving module that simulates the effects of alcohol and drugs through blurred vision and delayed response times. Together, they give teens a safe way to see how even a split second of inattention can lead to a crash.
“Giving students a chance to feel how distraction or impairment affects their driving changes the conversation,” said State Trooper Chris Caldwell, who demonstrated the program alongside his newly licensed daughter. “When they realize how quickly things can go wrong, it sticks.”
The data behind this initiative is sobering: in 2023, teen drivers were involved in more than 11,000 crashes across Minnesota, resulting in 4,400 injuries and 49 fatalities. Although drivers aged 15 to 19 represent just 6 percent of licensed motorists, they account for 11 percent of statewide collisions.
“VDI’s technology gives agencies like the Minnesota State Patrol the ability to change risky behavior before it begins,” said Saagar Govil, President of VDI. “When students experience the impact of distraction or impairment in a controlled environment, they develop safer habits for life.”
The simulators will be used at schools and community events throughout the state, offering measurable, hands-on training that actively engages students and complements classroom driver-education programs.
About Virtual Driver Interactive
Virtual Driver Interactive (VDI) is a leader in simulation-based driver training for education, corporate, and government organizations for over twenty years. Its products — including Virtual Driving Essentials™, Distracted Driving Experience™, and Advanced Driver Safety™ — equip users to identify risks, correct behavior, and reduce crashes.
With proven results across the U.S. and internationally, VDI partners with institutions that share its mission to save lives through smarter driver education.
Our Contact
877.746.8332
vdiwebinquiry@driverinteractive.com
www.driverinteractive.com