A device for controlling variable gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine is provided, in which an actuator control operates gas exchange valves by controlling valve actuators while taking into consideration supplied state variables and control specifications. Before the actuator control is cleared to operate the gas exchange valves, a collision protection device checks at least whether controlling the valve actuators using the supplied control specifications would lead to a collision of a gas exchange valve with an additional gas exchange valve. In response to a detected possible collision, the collision protection device initiates at least one measure that prevents a possible collision.