A two car crash on the Charleston Highway left two people injured and in the hospital on Monday afternoon. One of the vehicles was being driven by a 15-year-old from Bowman. The other car was driven by a 51-year-old from St. George. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts and are believed to be uninjured.

The accident occurred when one driver tried to turn and crossed the path of the other car. It is not clear at this time if the injured passengers were wearing seatbelts. The teen driver has been charged with a violation of his beginner's permit and a failure to yield. The crash is still under investigation.

Driving without a valid license can result in serious penalties. For example, teen drivers who violate the terms of their beginners permits can face a delay in getting their license. Getting into an accident can also result in the driver being held liable for passenger's injuries.

Passengers can experience back, neck and head injuries from car accidents, and the symptoms may not be apparent right away after the accident. If the injuries were the result of someone else's negligence, the passengers could be entitled to payment from the driver for medical bills, time off of work, pain and suffering, or any other costs associated with the injuries.

The extent of the injuries from this particular crash may not be known for quite a while. People who have been in a car accident should seek medical treatment promptly for any symptoms that could be a result of the crash, and contact an attorney if someone else may be liable for those injuries.

Source: The Times and Democrat, "Two taken to Columbia hospital after crash," Feb. 14, 2012.