Oakland Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident Leaves Cyclist Fighting for Life
A devastating Oakland hit-and-run bicycle accident has left 32-year-old Katunga Manuel-Nunn hospitalized with a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a speeding driver who fled the scene.
The crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. Friday at the intersection of 73rd Avenue and Weld Street in East Oakland. Surveillance video from a nearby liquor store shows a silver sedan speeding through the bike lane, clipping Manuel-Nunn’s bicycle and throwing him to the pavement.
Witnesses reported that the impact was violent, causing the bike to fly into the air. First responders arrived within minutes, finding the victim unresponsive. He was rushed to the hospital and remains in the ICU with life-threatening injuries.
“He’s fighting for his life,” said his sister Alisi Manuel. “It was so unexpected — the car was moving so fast, and he didn’t see it coming.”
Family Pleads for Justice
The victim’s family is pleading with the community to come forward with information about the driver or vehicle involved. “That is someone really important to our family,” said Alisi, her voice breaking. “He’s a father — very loving, one of a kind — and I just want justice for him.”
Witnesses believe the driver was traveling around 60 miles per hour in a posted residential area. The Oakland Police Department has not released an update on the investigation as of Wednesday.
Hit-and-Run and Cyclist Protection in California
California law provides strong protections for cyclists and imposes severe penalties on drivers who hit and run.
- Under Vehicle Code §20001, leaving the scene of an accident that results in injury or death is a felony punishable by imprisonment and substantial fines.
- Cyclists are legally recognized as roadway users under Vehicle Code §21200, entitled to use traffic lanes and bike paths safely.
- When drivers unlawfully enter or speed through a designated bike lane, they can be held civilly liable for resulting injuries under Civil Code §1714, even if criminal charges are pending.
Victims of bicycle collisions — or their families — may pursue civil claims for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages in cases involving reckless or intentional conduct
If the at-fault driver remains unidentified, compensation may still be available through uninsured motorist coverage or California’s Crime Victims Compensation Program, which assists families affected by violent hit-and-run incidents.
How the Brain Injury Help Center Can Help
If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury like the victim in this Oakland hit-and-run bicycle accident, you don’t have to face this painful journey alone. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you seek justice and recovery.
We offer:
- Free Consultations: Learn your rights and options without any upfront cost.
- No-Win, No-Fee Guarantee: You only pay if we win your case.
- Comprehensive Support: From investigating the crash and gathering evidence to pursuing maximum compensation, we’re with you every step of the way.
The Medical Treatment You Need, Money You Deserve
No family should face the aftermath of a hit-and-run alone. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a bicycle crash, contact the Brain Injury Help Center today for a free consultation. Let us help you pursue accountability and peace of mind.
