A Gipsy Hill cyclist has received £280,000 compensation after suffering serious injuries when she was squashed between two lorries in London.

Doris Barrera-Torico, 31, a Chilean student living in Gipsy Hill, suffered multiple fractures and degloving to her right leg, when a fractured bone is exposed, in 2007 when she was cycling along Holloway Road to a charity where she did voluntary work.

Now a student at the University of Surrey in Roehampton, Ms Barrera-Torico has battled for three years to obtain compensation for her injuries and losses. She was left permanently disabled after the accident.

Doris’s solicitor Paul Kitson, Head of Personal Injury at Russell Jones and Walker (RJW), said: “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.”

Earlier this year RJW launched the 2 Way Street campaign with the help of Gail Porter to increase motorists’ awareness of cyclists.

Ms Barrera-Torico said: “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.”

For more information and advice on cycling accidents visit www.rjw.co.uk.