Samantha Figueroa struck on Interstate 84, dies from injuries

NEWTOWN, Conn. — A truck tragically struck and killed 22-year-old Samantha Figueroa on Interstate 84, after her vehicle broke down on the morning of Oct. 25.

The Mercury sedan Figueroa was driving broke down in the left eastbound lane of the highway near Exit 13 at about 3:30 a.m., according to a local news report. Authorities said Figueroa exited the car and was standing in the left lane, where she was hit by a Mack truck while trying to flag down passenger vehicles for help.

Figueroa was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury where she died from her injuries.

The car she was driving was registered to a limo service in Plainville and the truck that hit her was registered to a company in Georgia.

COMMENTARY ON FATAL ACCIDENTS

I am troubled to learn of Ms. Figueroa’s tragic death at such a young age. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. 

Pedestrian fatalities skyrocketed during 2020, according to a recent study from the Governors Highway Safety Association. Although COVID-19 restrictions led to fewer miles driven during the year, there was an unprecedented 21% increase in pedestrians struck and killed by vehicles—the biggest increase in pedestrian fatalities since 1975, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration started documenting pedestrian deaths. Alcohol impairment was a contributing factor in nearly half of the accidents documented in 2020, according to the study.

A thorough examination will be needed to to pinpoint the exact cause of Figueroa's death. I have worked on numerous pedestrian accident cases over the last 30 years in my profession as a personal injury attorney, and I have represented many families in almost identical circumstances. The difficulty of grappling with the immense loss of a loved one while simultaneously trying to hack through the legal jungle cannot be understated. I continue to be amazed at the strength, fortitude, and courage displayed by those left behind.

I pray only the best for Ms. Figueroa’s loved ones who have been left behind to grieve.

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