Injured London cyclist receives £280,000 payout

A cyclist who suffered severe leg injuries after being crushed between two lorries in London has received a compensation payout of £280,000.

Chilean Doris Barrera-Torrico, now 31, was riding along the Holloway Road, London, in 2007 when she became trapped between two lorries, resulting in multiple fractures and the removal of a significant amount of flesh from her right leg.

Former triathlete Barrera-Torrico was cycling to the charity for which she worked voluntarily when the collision occured. Despite undergoing nine operations, her permanent injuries mean that she now has to walk with crutches.

Paul Kitson of Russell Jones and Walker personal injury solicitors who handled the case commented: "After a long and hard battle the case settled out of court, shortly before trial when blame was apportioned at 70:30 in Doris' favour.

"She has a permanent disability which has restricted her mobility and has also prevented her pursuing her sporting activities. Before the accident she was an accomplished triathlete.

"The settlement provides compensation for Doris's severe injuries, the nine operations she has undergone, as well as compensation for her past and future care requirements and loss of earnings."

Russell Jones and Walker have launched a campaign in August entitled 2 Way Street campaign to try and raise mutual awareness between lorry drivers and cyclists sharing busy roads.

Barrera-Torricohas added her voice to the campaign: "I fully support the 2 Way Street campaign, lorry drivers as well as car drivers need to be aware of cyclists on city roads. Safer, more aware driving will prevent other people suffering serious injuries like I did."

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