Summit Co., UT – Fatal Pedestrian Crash on I-80 EB Near MP 145

Summit County, UT (August 4, 2025) – A 28-year-old man, Joel Sotelo Cabrera from West Jordan, tragically lost his life after being struck by a pickup truck while attempting to cross I-80 on foot on Friday, August 1. The accident occurred just before midnight on eastbound I-80 at milepost 145.

According to Utah Highway Patrol, Cabrera had pulled over to the side of the road for an unknown reason and exited his vehicle. He attempted to cross I-80 to enter a construction zone when he was struck by a passing pickup truck. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and airlifted Cabrera to the University of Utah hospital, but he was sadly declared deceased en route.

Witnesses at the scene, including passengers in Cabrera’s vehicle, suspected impairment on his part. The driver of the pickup truck remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities. The incident is still under investigation.

Our thoughts are with Cabrera’s family during this difficult time.

Pedestrian Accidents in Summit County: The Dangers and Legal Support

Pedestrian accidents, like the tragic incident involving Joel Sotelo Cabrera on I-80, highlight the risks pedestrians face on highways, especially in construction zones or high-traffic areas. According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, pedestrian fatalities are unfortunately common, with many accidents occurring when individuals attempt to cross highways or roads without using designated crosswalks.

In Utah, the law requires pedestrians to exercise caution when walking along or crossing highways, particularly in construction zones where visibility may be limited and traffic patterns are disrupted. In this case, Cabrera’s attempt to cross I-80 during the night near construction areas could have been a factor in the unfortunate accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Family members may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, pain and suffering, and other related damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and pursue justice on behalf of the victim.

In cases like these, where there may be concerns about impairment or other contributing factors, a lawyer can also assist in ensuring that all parties involved are held accountable. The support of a legal professional can make all the difference in obtaining the compensation and closure you deserve after a devastating accident.

Take the first step toward recovery—use the contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation with an I-80 car crash lawyer.