£280,000 in compensation has been awarded to a cyclist who was left with a deformed leg after she was crushed by a lorry in a road traffic accident.
Three years after 31 year old student Doris Barrera Torrico first started proceedings against the lorry driver’s insurers, the case was settled out of court.
In the accident, Doris was pinned between two lorries and run over as she cycled to a charity where she did voluntary work. Previously a tri-athlete in her native Chile, Doris’s life has been changed forever and she can no longer run or use her bicycle.
Having endured nine operations and only just escaping the amputation of her badly injured leg, Doris has called for motorists to take more care around cyclists. She said, "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."
Cyclists on Britain’s roads face many hazards. As well as the obvious dangers posed by drivers of other vehicles, risks can also lie in poorly maintained roads where uneven surfaces and potholes can cause accidents, often leading to serious injuries.
Pothole bicycle accident victim awarded £2,000 compensation
In Yorkshire, a cyclist was awarded over £2,000 in compensation after he sustained injuries in a bicycle accident.
Yorkshire Water was found to be responsible for the accident involving 52 year old Peter Lodge, whose front wheel went down a pothole, catapulting him into the air and causing him several abrasions and cuts. The pothole surrounded a Yorkshire Water valve cover.
Mr Lodge considered himself lucky that the accident hadn’t happened an hour earlier during the rush hour. He is now calling for the authorities to pay more attention to potholes due to the high number of cyclist accidents they cause.
Whether their accident has been caused by another road user, or by poorly maintained highways, injured cyclists have a right to claim compensation for their pain and suffering and any future care or medical needs resulting from their injuries. In the case of Doris Barrera Torrico, her compensation hit a six figure sum due to the way her injuries affected her life. She had been a highly active sports person, and now faces a life on crutches, quite possibly with future problems likely.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident and someone else is to blame, Stephensons can help you claim the compensation you deserve. Our specialist road traffic accident claims solicitors have successfully pursued payouts for many cyclists with injuries ranging from minor to severe. To discuss your case with one of our friendly specialist lawyers, call us on 01616 966 229.
By personal injury solicitor and Stephensons’ Partner, Kate Sweeney
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