A Rock Valley teen and an Inwood man were taken to the hospital following a crash Monday morning on the east side of Rock Valley.
According to the Rock Valley Police Department, the crash happened around 8:00 a.m. on April 6th along Highway 18.
Authorities say a 16-year-old female from Rock Valley was driving a 2013 Chevrolet eastbound on Highway 18. Also traveling eastbound ahead of her was 42-year-old Christopher Van Beek of Inwood, driving a 2024 Ford pickup.
Police report that Van Beek had stopped while waiting to make a left turn when the teen driver rear-ended his pickup.
According to the report, the teen told the investigating officer she had been reaching for an object and became distracted. Officials also say sun glare was a contributing factor, as both drivers were traveling uphill and into the morning sun.
A parent transported the teen to Hegg Health Center for treatment. Van Beek was taken by Rock Valley Ambulance to Hegg Health Center Avera Hospital, where he was treated for reported head and neck injuries.
Authorities say the teen’s vehicle sustained approximately $20,000 in damage and was considered a total loss. The pickup driven by Van Beek sustained an estimated $15,000 in damage.
The teen driver was cited for following too closely.
This story is courtesy of fellow Community First Broadcasting station KIWA Radio
