Nina Elsom tragically killed in Salem vehicle vs. pedestrian accident

PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

This tragic accident underscores the dangers that pedestrians face every day in this country.

Based on data from the Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Department of Transportation, and the Governors Highway Safety Association, Oregon recorded 43 pedestrian deaths in the first half of 2024 – a 19% decrease from the previous year but still nearly 50% higher than a decade ago.

The state saw a peak of 126 pedestrian fatalities in 2022, compared to about 80 in typical recent years. While 2024 shows improvement, pedestrian death rates remain significantly elevated above historical norms, particularly affecting vulnerable populations in urban areas.

Since 2010, pedestrian fatalities have risen by 77 percent, which is significantly higher compared to the 22 percent increase in all other traffic fatalities during the same period.

“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Candice Bond, a Managing Partner with Bond Legal.

“An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision,” said Bond, an experienced pedestrian attorney.

 

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Bond. The family of Nina Elsom may be entitled to a wrongful death claim.

“Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident,” she added.

Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a family through this difficult time while protecting their rights.

“Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth,” Bond noted. “However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”