What a Bakersfield Truck Accident Attorney Can Do for You

Let’s face it: dealing with a truck accident ain’t no walk in the park. As someone who’s got your back in Bakersfield, California when it comes to legal issues, I get just how tangled things can get when you’ve had a run-in with one of those big rigs. You’re not just dealing with banged-up cars and busted bones, but also trying to get a fair shake in compensation for what you’ve lost.

These massive trucks pack a real punch, and when they collide, the results can be disastrous, leaving folks with serious injuries and a heap of financial worries. That’s where I, your Bakersfield truck accident attorney, come into the picture—armed and ready to offer crucial support and guidance.

In this handy guide, I’m gonna break things down for you about truck accidents in Bakersfield and just how important a savvy attorney can be in steering you through the legal maze. We’ll look into what makes truck accidents a whole new ballgame compared to car crashes, unravel common causes, and sort through who’s liable versus who’s not. Plus, I’ll clue you in on what kind of compensation might be on the table. The aim is to hand you the know-how and confidence to make the decisions that count.

Whether you’re a truck accident victim fighting for justice or just someone wanting to know their rights in case of such a blow, I’m here with the clarity, support, and legal know-how you need. By digging into truck accident cases and the crucial role of having a lawyer, I want to arm you with everything you need to aim for what’s fair and just.

Together, let’s dig into what truck accidents mean here in Bakersfield and how a seasoned truck accident attorney like me can lend invaluable help. Remember, your health and rights are front row and center, and I’m pledged to fight for what’s right for you every inch of the way.

Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Car Accidents

In the world of road mishaps, truck accidents are in a league of their own, packing their own special set of headaches compared to typical car collisions. Knowing these differences is key for folks tangled up in a truck accident who might be gearing up for some legal action.

Size, Weight, and Damage Severity

Here’s the deal: trucks are big and heavy—like, really big and really heavy. We’re talking about vehicles that weigh as much as a house. Like a cosmic bowling ball on wheels, when these giants collide with something, it’s usually a whole lot messier than your average fender bender. The fallout? Way more wreckage, maybe more funerals, and lives permanently flipped upside down.

Type of Accident	Average Fatalities	Average Injuries
Truck Accidents	Over 3,000 a year	Over 60,000 annually
Car Accidents	40,000+ yearly	Over 4 million a year

Federal and State Trucking Laws

Truck accidents aren’t just about the smash-ups; the law plays a huge part too. There are a ton of rules slapped on trucking companies and their drivers. They need to keep an eye on driving hours, make sure their trucks don’t fall apart on the highway, and a whole heap more. If they drop the ball on any of these, it can swing the legal scales in a big way for truck accident cases and might mean some hefty penalties for those involved.

Multiple Parties That Could Be Liable

Car accidents are generally straightforward with assigning blame, but truck collisions are like a messy board game where everybody could be holding a dodgy card. Apart from the dude behind the wheel, you’ve got the trucking company, the guys who loaded the cargo, maybe the folks who made the truck, and those who are supposed to keep it running like clockwork. Pinning down who’s at fault needs a whole lot of poking around and some top-notch legal skills.

Figuring out the nitty-gritty of truck accidents—especially how intense they are, the ton of rules involved, and who owes what—is crucial for anyone caught in the thick of things. Getting the right Bakersfield truck accident attorney onboard can help folks secure their rights, chase down some just compensation, and unravel the legal spaghetti that truck accidents can dish out.

What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident

Dealing with a truck accident can be a total whirlwind. You’ve got to keep your wits about you while handling the mess. Doing the right thing post-accident can really help keep you safe and protect your rights.

Step-by-Step Guide for Victims

1. Ensure Safety: If possible, get yourself and others to a safer spot away from the chaos of the accident zone.
2. Check for Injuries: Look yourself over and check on others involved for injuries. If anyone’s hurt, call for medical help right away.
3. Contact Authorities: Dial 911 to get cops and medical teams to the scene pronto.
4. Gather Information: Snag the details of folks involved—names, numbers, insurance, and truck company info if there’s one.
5. Document the Scene: Snap some pics of the crash site, busted cars, the road, and any visible bumps or bruises.
6. Seek Witnesses: If anyone saw what went down, make sure you get their contact info. Their input could be gold.
7. Do Not Admit Fault: Skip the apologies. Saying sorry or playing the blame game could backfire.
8. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney: Consult a Bakersfield truck accident lawyer to figure out your next steps and defend your rights.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Delaying Medical Treatment: Even if you feel peachy, some injuries hide at first. Go see a doc to make sure you’re all good, and it’s useful for any legal moves down the road.
• Providing Recorded Statements: Don’t let insurance companies record you without your lawyer there. They could twist your words.
• Accepting Quick Settlements: Don’t grab the first check insurance wants to cut; it might be peanuts compared to what you should get.
• Neglecting Legal Assistance: Teaming up with a savvy Bakersfield truck accident attorney early can keep things in your favor and push for a fair shake.

When to Seek Medical and Legal Help

Get checked out by a doctor after the accident, even if you think you’re fine. Stuff like whiplash and concussions can hit later. Talking to a truck accident attorney in Bakersfield quick can guide you through the legal maze, lock down important evidence, and shore up your case for getting some compensation.

After a truck accident, the name of the game is focusing on your health and grabbing legal advice. Doing so can smooth out the aftermath and make sure your rights aren’t left in the dust. Jumping on things fast and leaning on professional help can swing the outcome of your accident case big time.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Bakersfield

Truck accidents can hit like a ton of bricks in Bakersfield. Knowing what usually causes these crashes can help you and others see why legal help is so important. Here’s a quick rundown of what can lead to these road nightmares.

Driver Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations

Driver tiredness is a real problem. Those long hauls without catching some Zs can leave drivers like zombies on wheels. When a trucker’s too sleepy, their driving skills crash, too. Sometimes they even break the rules on how long they’re supposed to drive versus rest, which only makes things worse.

Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo

Packing trucks like a game of Jenga is asking for trouble. If stuff isn’t lined up right or there’s too much of it, this can mess with how a truck moves. Sudden shifts or spills throw everything off balance, and the driver can lose control like a rodeo rider on a bull. Keeping the load in check isn’t just a wish, it’s a must.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance and Brake Failure

Skimping on truck upkeep is like playing Russian roulette—sooner or later, something bad’s gonna happen. When brakes go kaput, it puts everyone on the line. Regular checks and fixes aren’t just smart, they’re life-savers.

Speeding, Reckless Driving, and Substance Use

Hitting the gas too much, playing Fast and Furious, or being under the influence? They’re recipes for disaster. Flying down the road means less time to hit the brakes, and wild moves make crashes almost certain. Toss in booze or drugs, and you’ve got something even scarier than a horror movie.

Figuring out why these truck wrecks happen isn’t just about pointing fingers. It’s also about arming truth to keep yourself safe and bend the legal system in your favor if you end up in a jam. Getting to a trusty Bakersfield truck accident attorney can make sure you get the help and justice you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case?

If a truck accident crashes into your life, figuring out who’s to blame is key to getting the cash you need to cover all the damage and chaos left behind. Loads of different players might share the blame, each with their own role in the mix-up.

The Driver vs. The Company: Who’s to Blame?

First up, you’ve got the truck driver and their boss, the trucking company. The driver might mess up by speeding, texting when they should be focusing on the road, or deciding that red lights don’t apply to big ol’ trucks. But sometimes, their company isn’t off the hook either. If they’ve skimped on training or are pushing drivers to break the rules to meet tight deadlines, they’re also in hot water.

Cargo Handlers: More Than Just Loaders

Cargo handlers and brokers are supposed to make sure everything is loaded on the truck securely and properly balanced. But when they cut corners or just don’t do their job right, you could end up with a load that’s more eager to see the pavement than the truck is. If something like unbalanced cargo or too-heavy loads caused the accident, these folks might also need to answer some tough questions.

What About the Truck’s Guts?

Sometimes, the problem isn’t who’s driving or what’s loaded where – it’s the truck itself. If something vital like the brakes, tires, or steering fails, the blame might lie with whoever put the truck together or took care of it last. If you’re dealing with a lemon of a truck, it’s worth looking into who signed off on it as road-ready.

Party	What They Might Be Liable For
Truck Driver	Speeding, distracted driving, legal violations
Trucking Company	Lousy training, unrealistic schedules
Freight Brokers	Bad loading jobs, insecure cargo
Truck Manufacturers	Dubious design, production goofs
Maintenance Providers	Shoddy upkeep, missed fixes

Spotting each guilty party and figuring out their part in the mess isn’t easy, but it sure is important if you want to successfully make your case. Bringing in a top-notch Bakersfield truck accident lawyer who knows the ins and outs of these cases can hugely up your odds of getting the moolah you deserve.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

When a truck accident happens, let’s just say, it’s not a small bump on the road. The injuries can completely turn your life upside down. We’re talking about spinal cord and brain injuries, body parts getting crushed or amputated, and not to forget, the emotional wreckage leading to PTSD. It’s tough stuff.

Spinal Cord and Brain Injuries

Getting into a truck accident can be a real backbreaker—literally. Spinal cord injuries from these collisions mess with your movement, feeling, heck, even just living like you’ve been used to. You’ll probably be seeing doctors for quite a while, maybe for the rest of your life. Then there are those traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They don’t just mess with your head; they tweak your thinking, your personality—basically how you do life.

Amputations and Crushing Injuries

Ever been really scared of being squished by something? Imagine a truck doing that; it’s terrifyingly possible. These massive machines can cause such damage that body parts might not make it. Victims face surgery after surgery, and let’s not get started on the huge bill it racks up—not to mention the emotional stuff they’re going through.

Emotional Trauma and PTSD

Truck accidents don’t just bruise your body—they hit your mind too. Getting involved in one of these wrecks can leave you jittery, always on edge—hello stress and anxiety, welcome to your new life companions. And for some, PTSD tags along too. Therapy and counseling become your new norms just to shake off the mental chaos.

Surviving a truck accident ain’t no joyride. Your body and mind take hits hard. And if you or someone dear had this nightmare, first things first, see a doc and maybe call a lawyer. Our Bakersfield truck accident lawyer article gives a lowdown on how a legal expert can back you up in this chaos, helping you fight for what’s rightfully yours.

Understanding Compensation in Truck Accident Claims

After a truck accident, getting money for the damages you suffered is a big part of bouncing back. Knowing the types of compensation available can give you a leg up in the legal maze of truck accident claims.

Medical Bills and Ongoing Treatment

First up, let’s talk about covering those medical bills piling up. This includes everything from emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, meds, rehab, and any long-term care you might need. Hang on to every bill and receipt tied to your injuries—that’s your ticket to getting the money you deserve.

Expense Type	Amount
Medical Bills	$10,000
Rehabilitation	$5,000
Medication	$2,500
Ongoing Therapy	$3,000

Lost Wages and Loss of Future Earning Ability

Getting hurt in a truck accident can mean lots of time off work, which equals lost paychecks. Compensation for this fills in the gap of what you would’ve made if you weren’t sidelined. If your injuries mess with your future earning power, that’s another pot of money you may qualify for.

Type of Compensation	Amount
Lost Wages	$20,000
Loss of Future Earning Ability	$50,000

Pain, Suffering, and Mental Distress

There’s more than just financial hits. We’re talking about the hurt you can’t see—pain, suffering, and the mental toll. This part of the claim seeks to ease the rough patches of emotional and physical strain, trauma, and stress from the accident.

Type of Compensation	Amount
Pain and Suffering	$75,000
Mental Distress	$30,000

Property Damage and Out-of-Pocket Costs

It’s not all about medical stuff and lost income. You’ll likely deal with property damage, like a banged-up vehicle or any trashed personal items. Plus, there could be out-of-pocket expenses linked to the accident like travel costs and home adjustments. These are also fair game for compensation claims.

Type of Compensation	Amount
Property Damage	$8,000
Out-of-Pocket Costs	$2,500

Knowing the different pieces of compensation in truck accident claims can help you put your losses in perspective and take the right legal steps. For personalized support, chatting with a savvy Bakersfield truck accident attorney can smooth out the convoluted legal process and amp up your chances of getting what you’re owed.

Proving Negligence in a Trucking Case

Getting involved in a trucking accident is no picnic, and when you’re trying to make sure the blame falls where it should, you gotta prove someone’s been careless. Gathering up the right kind of stuff is what’s gonna make or break your case. Here’s what you need to focus on when you’re saying, “Hey, this wasn’t just bad luck, they messed up!”

Heart of Evidence: Black Box, Logs, and Dash Cams

So, trucks have these little gadgets called black boxes, kinda like a jet’s flight recorder. They keep tabs on how fast the truck’s zipping along, when the brakes get slammed, and how the engine’s holding up right before things went haywire. Pulling out this info is like hitting rewind on all things mechanical and saying, “See, that’s where they slipped up.”

Truckers are supposed to jot down every little detail about how long they’ve been behind the wheel and when they’ve caught some shut-eye. These logs are the real deal, especially if someone dozed off while driving and slammed into something—or someone—they shouldn’t have.

Those dash cams? Straight-up window to the past. They show a no-nonsense replay of what went down on the road—the good, the bad, and the ugly. You bet that capturing those snippets can save your bacon in court.

Eyewitness and Accident Reconstruction

People on the scene when it all went down have stories to tell. They might have seen what the drivers missed and can light up some serious truths when things get fuzzy. Their accounts are gold when the ‘he said, she said’ gets real.

Then there’s the folks who come in like detectives for car wrecks. These accident reconstruction experts piece everything together like it’s a real-life puzzle. They dig into how fast everyone was going, peep the road conditions, and then lay out what their crystal ball shows them happened. Everyone listens when they say who’s to blame and why.

Skirting FMCSA Rules

Truckers have a rulebook to follow, set up by the FMCSA, and cutting corners doesn’t fly. If they’re logging too many hours without a break, skipping maintenance checks, or slapping stuff down without tying it right, they’re asking for trouble and it could stick them with the tab after an accident.

Showing they didn’t play by the FMCSA book can really cinch it for proving they dropped the ball. Getting into those violations puts muscle in your corner when you’re looking to get paid back for the damage.

Piecing together evidence, voiceing your witnesses, and pointing out when laws were sidestepped are your main moves in proving who’s responsible. Make sure to load up your case with this heavy artillery to stand strong in your claim. If you’ve hit a snag with a truck crash in Bakersfield, reaching out to a seasoned Bakersfield truck accident lawyer is a smart move. They’ll be in your corner, helping you steer through this legal mess and make sure your voice is heard.

How much are most truck accident settlements in California?

Alright, let’s get real about cashing in on those truck accidents in California. Settlements can swing wildly, all depending on what went down. Stuff like how bad the injuries are, if your ride’s trashed, or how much at fault the other dude is. Get with a lawyer who knows their stuff, especially in truck mess-ups. They’ll give you a ballpark idea of what kind of settlement is coming your way. Hit up our truck accident lawyer for the scoop.

What percentage do lawyers take from settlements?

Curious about how much of your settlement does your lawyer snag? In the Golden State, they’re usually on the hook only if they win something for you, working on the ‘no win, no pay’ mantra. They typically take 33% to 40% of what you finally pocket. Before you even start filing claims, sit down and chat with your attorney about how this all shakes out.

How do I prove negligence in a truck accident?

Want to nail that negligence claim in a truck bender? It’s really about showing that someone dropped the ball and that led straight to your pileup. Key stuff like data from the black boxes in trucks, the driver’s logs, dashcam clips, eyewitness accounts, and following the FMCSA regs all play a part. A solid lawyer can help you gather up what you need to paint a convincing picture.

When should I call a truck accident attorney?

Didn’t see that truck coming? Time to pick up the phone and ring a lawyer, pronto! Especially in Bakersfield, California, the earlier you loop in a truck crash lawyer, the better your odds of making the legal maze an easier trek. Not sure about your rights? Need help sorting out insurance babble? Thinking about hitting the courts? Your attorney’s got your back, guiding you through the tough spots.

Can I afford legal help for my truck accident case?

Worried about lawyer fees while chasing that truck accident claim? Most lawyers dealing with these cases in Bakersfield won’t ask for a dime upfront. They work those contingency deals, meaning they’re only getting paid if you do. This setup lets you go all-in on getting justice without throwing down cash from the get-go. For a clear view on costs and lawyer fees, connect with a seasoned truck accident attorney and get the lowdown.

How a Bakersfield Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

Being caught in the chaos of a truck accident is no walk in the park. That’s why grabbing the lifeline a Bakersfield truck accident attorney offers can be a real game-changer. Let’s check out how these legal wizards roll up their sleeves for you when the rubber meets the road.

Investigating the Crash and Gathering Evidence

The first step’s all about playing detective. A sharp Bakersfield truck accident attorney will dig deep into the accident scene. They’ll scoop up everything they can—police reports, chats with folks who saw it all go down, or even video clips if they’re lurking around. By piecing together the puzzle, your attorney will craft a rock-solid case with your best interests at heart.

Dealing with Insurance Companies and Adjusters

Handling insurance mumbo jumbo after a truck crash is a headache nobody needs. These insurance folks? They’re pros at making things confusing. But a savvy attorney’s your shield—taking on all the calls and paperwork. They’ll fight to make sure you ain’t getting short-changed, lining up the dollars you deserve for all the bumps and bruises, plus the mess they left behind.

Filing a Lawsuit and Going to Trial if Needed

Sometimes, no amount of sweet talk can crack a fair deal, which means strapping in for the legal ride—yep, we’re talking lawsuits and courtrooms. A Bakersfield truck accident attorney knows their stuff and will be ready to go to bat for you. They’ll lay out your case with flair, showing the court why you should get every penny for the trouble you’ve been through.

Tapping into the expertise of a Bakersfield truck accident attorney really amps up your odds at walking away with the win. Let them sweat the fine print while you heal up, knowing someone’s got your back. If you’ve been tangled up in a truck accident, make the call to a trusty attorney who’ll lead you through every twist and turn with a steady hand.

Timeline of a Truck Accident Case in California

Getting tangled in a truck accident case out in California is like stepping into a well-rehearsed play requiring you to move from one act to another—from chatting with legal pros to closing curtains with a settlement or court ruling. Knowing the sequence can shed some light on what usually goes down in the legal field and might save your nerves.

Initial Consultation to Settlement or Verdict

It all kicks off with a sitdown with a Bakersfield truck accident attorney. Picture this as your backstage pass, where the lawyer gets a peek at your life’s drama—examining case details, dishing out legal wisdom, and giving you a roadmap on the next move.

Once you’re off the couch, the attorney swaggers into detective mode. They scoop up police files, eyewitness tales, and medical paperwork—all the ammo needed to back up your plea for compensation.

Along the road, there could be back-and-forths with the insurance folks or anyone else in the mix, looking to wrap things up neatly. If that’s a no-go, the show might head to court, where the gavel-wielders call the shots on a verdict.

How Long Does It Usually Take?

The ticking clock on a truck accident case is unpredictable—it can speed up or slow down depending on a mishmash of things, like how tangled the case is, how bad the boo-boos are, or if everyone’s playing nice. Most cases in sunny California take a wild ride lasting from a few months to several years to hit the finish line.

No two scripts about truck accidents are the same—the events surrounding your specific mishap will tweak the timeline. Your Bakersfield truck accident lawyer will have a better compass on timing, based on the nitty-gritty of what went down that day.

Tips for Speeding Up the Process

Lawsuits dragging on could feel like waiting at a DMV queue. But don’t worry—there are hacks to shave off some time from your truck crash case:

• Keep the Updates Coming: Fire back any inquiries from your lawyer quickly; don’t let those documents gather dust.

• Doctor’s Orders: Stick with the prescribed treatments and tick off those medical visits like clockwork, so your injury records are buttoned-up.

• Stay in the Loop: Check in with your legal eagle often to clear up any foggy questions popping up during this legal ride.

• Mediation Route: If the tête-à-têtes freeze up, going the mediation route might be your ace in the hole for a speedier, wallet-friendly settlement.

By keeping these pointers up your sleeve and syncing with your legal ace, you can help sweep through the process and aim for a satisfying conclusion in your truck accident tale.

Signs You Have a Strong Truck Accident Claim

Looking to make a solid case after a truck accident in Bakersfield? You gotta know the signs that your claim packs a punch. Spotting issues with how trucks are run or kept up can swing things your way big time. Being ready to file ain’t just smart—it’s the way to win this legal scrum. Here’s some lowdown you need to keep on your radar.

Table: Common Red Flags in Truck Operation and Maintenance

Mess-Ups	What’s Going Wrong
Lousy Vehicle Upkeep	Things like jacked-up tires or squeaky brakes scream neglect.
Ignoring Safety Rules	Them trucking rules are there for a reason. Breaking weight limits or driving too long ain’t cool.
Bad History	If the truck or driver has a track record of crashes or skirting the law, take note.

Spotting these mess-ups can pin the blame where it belongs and jazz up your truck accident case. If you think any of these played a role in your wreck, jot it down and gab with your lawyer.

Checklist: Are You Ready to File a Claim?

Before you stampede into a truck accident claim, make sure you’ve got your ducks in a row. Here’s a checklist to see if you’re all set to go:

• [ ] Whip Up Your Evidence: Scooped up all the goods like accident reports, doctor papers, and scene snaps?
• [ ] Get Doc’s Check-Up: Seen a doctor to scope out your injuries and what it’s gonna take to fix ’em?
• [ ] Lawyer Up: Got a sit-down scheduled with a Bakersfield truck accident legal eagle to see what’s what?
• [ ] Know Your Stuff: Clued up about what you’re entitled to after a truck bender and what cash might come your way?
• [ ] Beat the Clock: Hip to the deadlines for dishing out a truck accident claim in California?

Tick off these to-dos to lay the groundwork for a top-notch claim, and you’ll stride confidently toward the compensation you’re after following that truck tangle. If you need a hand sizing up your claim and figuring out your next move, hit up a trusty Bakersfield truck accident attorney for the skinny.

Why Choose Our Bakersfield Truck Accident Lawyers

Getting caught up in the aftermath of a truck wreck can be a nightmare. Choosing the right lawyer is the lifeline you need to untangle the mess called personal injury claims. Our crew at Bakersfield is committed to giving you a good fight for the justice and compensation that’s rightfully yours.

Leading the Charge with Big Wins

We’ve got a history of bagging hefty settlements and sweet wins for those who step through our doors. Our Bakersfield truck accident lawyers know the ins and outs of these cases like the back of their hand, and we’re not shy about going the extra mile to get what’s best for you.

Putting You First, Keeping It Real

At Law Karma, we’re all about you. We like to keep the lines open and play it straight, so you’re never left in the dark. Many of our folks say it’s like being in touch with an old friend who knows the ropes. We’re about building relationships on good old trust and truth, no fancy fluff just honesty.

Pay When We Win

Dealing with the fallout of a truck accident is tough enough. We don’t want to add to that. Our truck accident lawyers in Bakersfield work on a pay-when-we-win basis. This means you won’t drop a dime unless we get some greenbacks coming your way. Our fee hangs on us bagging a win for you, letting you stress less over that wallet while we handle the rest.

Teaming up with our Bakersfield truck accident legal squad means you’ve got folks who’ll fight tooth and nail for your rights, driven by a hunger for justice and fair compensation. Give us a shout for a free chat about your case, and let’s see how we can pitch in to get things straight and make wrongdoers pay for the mess they caused in that truck fiasco.

Get a Free Case Review From a Trusted Truck Accident Lawyer

When you’re picking up the pieces after a truck accident, getting legal advice from a solid truck accident attorney is like having a GPS in a maze. I’ve teamed up with some of the sharpest truck accident lawyers in Bakersfield, and we’re here to give you a free case review—no strings attached—so we can help map out your rights and options.

Available 24/7 to Help You Start Your Claim

Let’s get real—truck accident cases can be as tangled as fishing lines after a storm. We know you might need help anytime day or night. That’s why our crew is on standby, ready to roll, whenever you need us. Got questions about who’s on the hook for what, or what kind of compensation you might see? Just holler. We’re here to guide and support you in firing up your claim.

Don’t Wait Your Rights May Expire Soon

There’s no time to waste if you’re thinking about legal action after a truck accident. The clock is ticking with legal deadlines, and dragging your feet could slam the door on your claim. Get a move on and grab that free case review from us, the trusty truck accident lawyers. This will keep your rights in tip-top shape and give you a fighting chance at getting the compensation you deserve.

Ready to step up and make sure those responsible are held accountable? Want to talk to someone who’s got your back? Reach out now for your free case review. We’re all about standing up for your rights with the kind of compassion and expertise that makes a difference.