If you were injured on someone else’s property in Patterson, California, understanding your rights and options is important. Premises liability claims involve property owners’ responsibility to maintain safe conditions for visitors, customers, or tenants. This guide explains common scenarios that lead to claims, how fault and negligence are determined under California law, and what evidence matters for building a strong case. Our goal is to help Patterson residents recognize when a property owner may be responsible, and to outline practical steps you can take after an incident to protect your claim and pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Navigating a premises liability claim in Patterson can feel overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. Timely actions, such as preserving evidence, documenting injuries, and reporting the incident to the property manager or owner, can affect the outcome. You should also be aware of California deadlines for filing claims and how insurance companies typically respond. This page summarizes what to expect during an investigation, how liability is evaluated, and common defenses property owners raise. The information that follows is intended to equip Patterson residents with practical knowledge to make informed decisions and protect their legal rights after a property-related injury.
Having knowledgeable representation can make a meaningful difference when pursuing a premises liability claim in Patterson. A well-handled claim ensures that crucial tasks are completed promptly, such as collecting witness statements, preserving surveillance footage, and obtaining medical documentation. Legal support can help interpret how local ordinances and California law apply to a specific incident and can negotiate with insurers to pursue fair compensation. For many residents, representation also reduces stress by managing complex paperwork and deadlines. Ultimately, effective representation often results in better financial recovery and a clearer path through the legal process while you focus on recovery and rehabilitation.
Law Republic APC handles personal injury matters, including premises liability claims, for residents of Patterson and surrounding areas in Stanislaus County. The firm focuses on guiding clients through every step of a claim, from initial investigation to settlement negotiation or litigation if needed. Attorneys at the firm bring experience in handling cases against property owners and insurers, working to document hazards, assess damages, and advocate for fair outcomes. Patterson clients can expect clear communication about legal options, practical guidance on evidence preservation, and a consistent focus on achieving recovery that addresses both immediate medical needs and long-term consequences of an injury.
Premises liability law addresses situations where a property owner or occupier may be responsible for injuries that occur on their property due to unsafe conditions. In Patterson, common scenarios include slips and falls at grocery stores, trip hazards in parking lots, inadequate lighting in common areas of apartment complexes, and injuries from poorly maintained stairways. To establish liability, a claimant generally must show that a dangerous condition existed, that the property owner knew or should have known about it, and that the owner failed to take reasonable steps to address the hazard. Proper documentation and prompt reporting strengthen any claim in such cases.
California premises liability law considers the status of the visitor — whether they were invited, licensed, or trespassing — which can affect the property owner’s duties. Patterson residents should be aware that businesses and landlords often carry insurance policies intended to cover injuries on their properties, and insurers will investigate incidents closely. A thorough understanding of how evidence, witness testimony, maintenance records, and surveillance footage factor into liability assessments helps claimants and their representatives build a stronger case. Knowing these legal principles early on improves your ability to preserve the right kind of documentation after an injury.
A premises liability claim arises when an injury results from a hazardous condition on someone else’s property and the property owner failed to take reasonable care to prevent harm. Examples include slippery floors without warning signs, damaged sidewalks, inadequate security that leads to assaults, and negligent maintenance that creates dangerous conditions. Under California law, the focus is on whether the property owner knew, or reasonably should have known, about the dangerous condition and whether they acted to correct it. Claimants must connect the condition to their injuries through evidence such as photographs, medical records, and witness accounts.
A successful premises liability case typically involves proving several elements: existence of a dangerous condition, knowledge or notice of the condition by the owner, failure to remedy the hazard, and a causal link between the condition and the injury. The process often begins with preserving evidence, securing incident reports, and obtaining medical documentation. Investigations may include inspecting the scene, collecting maintenance records, and interviewing witnesses. Negotiations with insurers aim to resolve damages including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If settlement is not reached, the case may proceed to litigation where evidence and testimony will be presented to support the claim.
Understanding legal terms can make the claims process less confusing. This glossary covers frequently used terms in premises liability matters, such as negligence, notice, comparative fault, and compensatory damages. Each term is explained in plain language with examples relevant to Patterson incidents, helping claimants recognize how concepts apply to their situations. Familiarity with these terms assists in conversations with insurance adjusters and legal representatives, and helps individuals understand case strategy and potential outcomes. Clear definitions also reduce misunderstandings about responsibilities and legal standards that affect recovery.
Negligence refers to the failure to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances, which results in harm to another person. In a premises liability context, negligence might be a store owner’s failure to clean a spill promptly or a landlord’s failure to repair a broken handrail. To prove negligence, a claimant typically shows that the property owner owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and that the breach directly caused the injury and resulting damages. Evidence such as photographs, maintenance records, and witness statements helps demonstrate whether negligence occurred in a particular Patterson incident.
Notice describes whether the property owner knew or should have known about a dangerous condition. Actual notice occurs when an owner or employee was directly aware of the hazard. Constructive notice exists when the dangerous condition was present long enough that the owner should have discovered and addressed it through reasonable inspection or maintenance. Establishing notice is important because it shows the owner had an opportunity to correct the hazard. Documentation like maintenance logs, previous complaints, and surveillance footage can support a finding that notice existed in a Patterson premises liability claim.
Comparative fault is a legal principle that allocates responsibility when multiple parties share blame for an injury. Under California’s comparative fault system, a claimant’s recovery may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a Patterson visitor was partially responsible for an accident but the property owner also contributed to unsafe conditions, the court or insurer may assign a proportionate share of fault and adjust compensation accordingly. Understanding comparative fault encourages careful documentation and clear evidence to minimize any percentage attributed to the injured party.
Compensatory damages are monetary awards intended to make an injured person whole for losses caused by an accident. These damages typically include economic losses like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages, as well as non-economic losses such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, future medical needs and ongoing care are also included. Accurately documenting expenses, healthcare providers’ opinions, and the impact of injuries on daily life strengthens a claim for appropriate compensatory damages in a Patterson premises liability case.
When pursuing a premises liability matter, claimants may consider a limited approach that focuses on a narrow set of tasks, or a comprehensive approach that addresses all potential sources of recovery and prepares for litigation if necessary. A limited approach may be appropriate for straightforward cases with clear liability and modest damages, while a comprehensive approach often involves thorough investigation, expert assessments, and preparation for courtroom presentation. Choosing the right approach depends on the complexity of the incident, the extent of injuries, and the property owner’s likely defenses, as well as the claimant’s goals for resolution and compensation.
A limited approach might suffice when liability is obvious and injuries are relatively minor. Examples include a visible spill in a small store with clear witness accounts and prompt treatment that does not require extensive follow-up care. In such cases, focused steps like documenting the incident, obtaining a written incident report, and submitting medical bills to the insurer can result in a quick resolution. This approach aims to resolve claims efficiently without the time and cost of a full-scale investigation or litigation, while still seeking fair payment for medical expenses and short-term lost income.
A limited strategy may also work when the property owner’s insurer is cooperative and evidence is preserved and uncontested. If surveillance footage clearly shows the hazardous condition and liability is acknowledged, a streamlined negotiation can secure recovery without extensive discovery. Prompt evidence collection, such as photos, witness contact information, and medical records, supports this faster route. However, even with cooperation, claimants should remain cautious about early settlement offers and ensure that any agreement fully addresses future medical needs or complications before accepting a final payment.
A comprehensive approach is often needed when injuries are severe, require ongoing care, or have long-term consequences. These cases benefit from thorough investigation to document the full extent of damages and to support claims for future medical costs, rehabilitation, and loss of earning capacity. Building a detailed record may include timelines of treatment, medical expert input, and careful calculation of future needs. Comprehensive preparation positions a claimant to obtain compensation that addresses both immediate expenses and the projected long-term impact of the injury on their life and finances.
When property owners or insurers contest liability or raise aggressive defenses, a comprehensive strategy is important. This approach includes deeper investigation into maintenance records, past complaints, and site inspections, and may involve depositions, expert opinions, and careful legal briefing. Documenting a timeline and obtaining corroborating testimony strengthens a claimant’s position. Preparation for litigation also signals to insurers that a claimant is ready to pursue full legal remedies if a fair settlement is not offered, which can lead to more realistic negotiations and better outcomes for the injured party.
A comprehensive approach increases the chances of fully recovering damages by ensuring nothing is overlooked. It involves preserving all relevant evidence, investigating the property owner’s maintenance practices, and projecting future costs related to care and lost earnings. Thorough preparation reduces surprises during settlement discussions and litigation, and it often results in a settlement that more accurately reflects the true impact of an injury. For Patterson residents dealing with serious consequences from a property accident, this thoroughness provides a clearer path toward financial stability and the resources needed for recovery.
Another benefit of a comprehensive approach is stronger leverage during negotiations with insurers. When a claim is backed by detailed documentation, credible testimony, and a realistic assessment of future needs, insurers are more likely to consider fair settlement offers. Comprehensive preparation also helps mitigate the effects of comparative fault arguments by addressing potential weaknesses proactively. This methodical process can shorten the timeline to resolution in some cases, while ensuring any settlement properly compensates for both present and anticipated losses associated with the injury.
Preserving and documenting evidence promptly can make or break a premises liability claim. This involves photographing the scene, collecting witness contact information, requesting surveillance footage, and obtaining incident reports. Medical documentation should reflect both immediate treatment and follow-up care. A comprehensive process ensures that evidence is gathered before it disappears or is altered, which is especially important for Patterson incidents where weather, cleanup, or repairs may remove signs of a hazard. Well-preserved evidence makes it easier to establish liability and accurately calculate the scope of damages needed for recovery.
A full-scale approach yields stronger negotiation leverage and a clearer strategy if litigation becomes necessary. When a claim includes a complete record of medical care, credible witness statements, maintenance histories, and a reasoned assessment of future needs, insurers are more likely to engage seriously. Comprehensive preparation also allows for targeted legal arguments and effective responses to defenses. For Patterson claimants, this means pursuing outcomes that better reflect the real costs of injury and recovery while maintaining readiness to advance a case through court if a satisfactory settlement cannot be achieved.
After an injury on someone else’s property, take steps to preserve evidence while ensuring your safety. If possible, photograph the hazard from multiple angles, capture surrounding conditions like lighting and obstacles, and note the exact location. Obtain contact information for any witnesses and, if the incident occurred at a business, request an incident report or write down the names of staff who assisted. Prompt documentation increases the chance of capturing unaltered evidence, which is particularly helpful in Patterson where property maintenance or weather may change conditions quickly.
Notify the property owner, manager, or responsible party about the incident and request a written incident report, if one is available. Ask that surveillance footage be preserved and that maintenance logs relevant to the scene be retained. These steps help ensure important documentation is not lost and provide a clearer record of conditions leading to the injury. Maintaining copies of correspondence and noting the names of people you speak with supports your claim. In many cases, early preservation requests improve the ability to reconstruct events and demonstrate notice or a pattern of neglect.
Pursuing a premises liability claim can be complex because it requires proving how a condition caused injury and showing that the property owner had notice or failed to act reasonably. Legal support helps navigate evidence gathering, interactions with insurers, and relevant deadlines under California law. For Patterson residents, representation can be particularly valuable when injuries involve significant medical care, disputed liability, or when multiple parties might share fault. Professional guidance can clarify potential compensation sources and advocate for an outcome that covers both immediate costs and longer-term needs associated with the injury.
Even in cases that seem straightforward, insurers may undervalue claims or investigate aggressively to limit payouts. Having someone manage communications and negotiations can prevent premature settlement decisions that leave future expenses uncovered. Legal support also ensures that filings and procedural steps are handled correctly, which preserves the right to pursue recovery in a timely manner. For Patterson residents, securing knowledgeable assistance early increases the likelihood of a comprehensive resolution and reduces the personal burden of managing a complex claims process while focusing on recovery.
Premises liability claims often arise from everyday hazards such as wet floors without warnings, damaged stairways, uneven sidewalks, and inadequate security that results in assaults. In Patterson, incidents can also occur in parking lots, retail settings, apartment complexes, and public spaces where maintenance or inspection lapses create risks. Each circumstance requires careful documentation of the condition and circumstances at the time of injury, as well as any actions taken or communications with property management. These details form the foundation for demonstrating liability and pursuing appropriate compensation.
Slips and falls in stores or restaurants frequently lead to claims when spills, wet floors, or obstacles are not addressed or marked. Recovering compensation depends on showing that the business knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to remedy or warn patrons. Collecting eyewitness accounts, photos of the scene, and any incident reports helps support such claims. For Patterson shoppers and diners, documenting the conditions and maintaining records of medical treatment and lost time from work strengthens the case for recovery against a negligent property owner or their insurer.
Uneven sidewalks, broken curbs, and exposed tree roots can cause trips and serious injuries, especially for pedestrians or elderly residents. Liability may rest with the adjacent property owner, the city, or another responsible party depending on local maintenance responsibilities. Timely photographs, witness statements, and reports to municipal authorities can help preserve evidence. In Patterson, documenting the exact location and any prior complaints about the condition supports a claim and helps determine which party may be responsible for repairs and compensation for resulting injuries.
When assaults or criminal acts occur on property due to inadequate security, property owners can be accountable if foreseeable risks were ignored. Claims often rely on prior incident history, absence of reasonable security measures, or failure to address known risks. Documentation such as police reports, witness statements, and records of prior complaints help establish whether the owner should have taken steps to protect visitors. For Patterson residents affected by such incidents, pursuing a claim involves gathering evidence of the property’s security practices and demonstrating how deficiencies contributed to the harm suffered.
If you were injured on someone else’s property in Patterson, Law Republic APC can provide clear guidance on the next steps to protect your claim. We assist with documenting the incident, preserving evidence, and communicating with insurers to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our approach emphasizes practical advice tailored to your situation, including how to report the incident and preserve important records. Patterson residents can rely on timely communication and focused representation aimed at achieving a fair resolution while minimizing additional stress during recovery.
Law Republic APC represents clients in personal injury matters, including premises liability claims, across California and within Stanislaus County. The firm prioritizes client communication, careful case development, and thorough evidence preservation. For Patterson residents, the firm offers experience handling property-related injuries and guiding claimants through investigations, settlement negotiations, and court proceedings when necessary. The focus is on obtaining meaningful compensation that addresses both immediate medical needs and longer-term effects of the injury, while keeping clients informed about strategy and next steps.
Clients working with Law Republic APC can expect help assembling documentation, interacting with insurers, and assessing full damages related to their injuries. The firm works to identify all potential sources of recovery and evaluates whether settlement or litigation best serves the client’s objectives. This practical orientation aims to reduce the burden on injured individuals and their families, allowing them to concentrate on recovery while the firm pursues an outcome that covers medical costs, lost income, and other impacts caused by the incident.
Communication and responsiveness are emphasized so Patterson clients understand the status of their case and the rationale behind legal decisions. The firm provides honest evaluations of claim strengths and likely outcomes, helping clients make informed choices. Additionally, the firm assists with preserving crucial evidence early in the process and coordinates with medical providers to document treatment and future care needs. This measured approach supports effective case management and aims to deliver a fair, timely resolution for those harmed on another’s property.
Our process begins with a thorough intake to understand the facts, injuries, and available evidence. We then work to secure incident reports, gather witness statements, and preserve any surveillance footage or maintenance records. Medical documentation is collected to support damages, and an assessment is made regarding potential liability and responsible parties. When appropriate, we open communications with insurers to pursue settlement while preparing for litigation if necessary. Patterson clients are kept informed at each stage so they understand the strategy and anticipated timeline for resolution.
The initial stage focuses on documenting the incident and preserving evidence that may be time-sensitive. This includes taking photographs, obtaining witness contact information, requesting an incident report from the property, and urging preservation of surveillance footage. Medical attention should be sought promptly to create a link between the injury and the event. Early preservation requests may prevent loss of crucial evidence due to cleanup or repair, and detailed records created at this stage lay the groundwork for a strong claim in Patterson.
Photographs, video, and witness contact details are among the most valuable items to collect immediately after an incident. Images should capture the hazard, surroundings, lighting, and any warning signs or lack thereof. Witnesses can provide independent accounts of what occurred, and their statements may corroborate the claimant’s version of events. Securing these elements quickly increases the likelihood that the evidence will remain unchanged and reliable when used later during negotiations or trial preparation.
Surveillance footage and maintenance logs often exist for only a short time before being overwritten or discarded. Requesting preservation of video and copies of maintenance and inspection records helps create a complete picture of conditions leading to the incident. These records can show whether a hazardous condition was known, recurring, or addressed improperly. For Patterson claims, establishing a clear record of requests to preserve such materials strengthens the case by ensuring key evidence remains available during investigation and negotiation.
After initial evidence is secured, the next stage involves compiling medical records, documenting economic losses, and analyzing liability. This includes coordinating with healthcare providers to obtain detailed treatment histories and expert opinions when needed to assess long-term consequences. Financial records relating to lost wages and expenses are also gathered. A thoughtful damages calculation considers both present and future needs, which is essential for negotiating a settlement that truly compensates the injured party for the full impact of the incident.
Medical documentation should outline the nature and extent of injuries, treatments provided, and recommended future care. When long-term rehabilitation or ongoing treatment is likely, consultations with relevant healthcare professionals help estimate future costs. These projections are important when calculating damages for negotiations or court. Both immediate and anticipated medical needs are incorporated into a comprehensive damages assessment to ensure that any settlement addresses the injured person’s short- and long-term recovery requirements.
Economic losses include past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering and the loss of enjoyment of life. Gathering documentation like pay stubs, tax records, and professional assessments of future earning potential supports economic claims. Detailed narratives and testimony demonstrating the injury’s impact on daily life help substantiate non-economic damages. Together, these elements provide a comprehensive view of the losses sustained and inform realistic settlement demands or trial strategies.
With evidence and damages documented, the firm enters negotiations with insurers to seek fair compensation. Negotiation strategies are guided by the strength of evidence, documented losses, and any comparative fault considerations. When insurers do not offer a reasonable resolution, the case may proceed to litigation, where formal discovery, depositions, and courtroom presentation become part of the process. Preparing thoroughly for both negotiation and trial improves prospects for a favorable outcome and ensures the claimant is ready to pursue the full range of legal remedies available under California law.
During negotiations, well-documented evidence and credible medical support increase the chances of obtaining a fair settlement. Settlement offers should be evaluated in light of current and future needs, and any agreement must comprehensively address medical care, lost income, and related damages before being accepted. The decision to settle should weigh the certainty of recovery against potential benefits of litigating for a higher award. Negotiation aims to achieve a timely resolution that fairly compensates the injured party without sacrificing necessary future care.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to litigation where thorough preparation is essential. This phase includes exchanging evidence, taking depositions, and presenting expert and lay witness testimony to build a persuasive case. Documentation compiled earlier becomes critical in proving liability and damages. By preparing for trial, claimants demonstrate seriousness and readiness to pursue justice, which can also encourage more reasonable settlement offers. The litigation route seeks to secure appropriate compensation when negotiation alone does not resolve the dispute.
Seek medical attention immediately and document the incident thoroughly. Prioritize your health by visiting a healthcare provider, as medical records establish a link between the injury and the incident. While safe to do so, photograph the hazard and surrounding scene from multiple angles, and record contact information for any witnesses. If the incident occurred at a business, request that an incident report be prepared and obtain a copy or the name of the person who completed it. Preserve any physical evidence and request that surveillance footage be retained. Notify the property owner or manager of the incident and request preservation of video and maintenance logs. Keep records of all medical treatments, expenses, and communications related to the incident. Early documentation and preservation help support any future claim and protect your ability to seek fair compensation for injuries sustained in Patterson.
In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including premises liability, is generally two years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline can bar a claim, so taking prompt action is important. Certain circumstances or claims against governmental entities may follow different timelines and require earlier notice, so it is important to confirm applicable deadlines for your situation in Patterson or Stanislaus County. Because procedural rules can affect how and when to file, early consultation and prompt steps to preserve evidence help ensure your claim remains viable. Acting quickly to document the incident and consult with qualified legal counsel reduces the risk of missing critical timelines and supports the best possible recovery under California law.
Yes, recovery may still be possible even if you share some fault. California follows a comparative fault system where damages are reduced by the injured person’s percentage of fault. For example, if a jury finds you 20 percent at fault, your recovery would be reduced by that percentage. Demonstrating your limited role in causing the incident through evidence and testimony helps minimize any percentage attributed to you. It is important to document the circumstances and gather witness statements to counter any claims that you were largely responsible. Comparative fault calculations can significantly affect the value of a claim, so a careful presentation of evidence and a clear explanation of how the incident occurred are essential to preserve recovery potential in Patterson cases.
Premises liability damages typically include economic losses such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages, as well as non-economic losses like pain and suffering. In cases involving long-term disability or reduced earning capacity, future medical costs and projected wage losses may also be recoverable. Proper documentation of medical treatment, bills, and employment records is important to substantiate these claims. In some instances, additional damages related to emotional distress or loss of enjoyment of life may be considered, depending on the case’s specifics. The total potential recovery depends on the severity of injuries, the quality of evidence linking harm to the property condition, and the legal arguments made to demonstrate liability and full extent of damages.
Surveillance footage can be highly persuasive because it provides objective visual evidence of the hazard and the incident. Video may show the hazardous condition, how long it existed, and the actions of involved parties. When available, footage often strengthens a claimant’s position and can speed up resolution. However, even without video, other evidence like photographs, witness statements, and maintenance logs can support a claim in Patterson. Because footage is typically retained only for a limited period, requesting preservation quickly is important. Making timely preservation demands and documenting requests for video and records improves the chance that crucial evidence will remain available for investigation and negotiation.
You should exercise caution when speaking with an insurance adjuster and avoid giving recorded statements before understanding how your comments might be used. Adjusters often gather information to evaluate liability and may offer recorded interviews or early settlement proposals. Providing limited factual details and avoiding speculation about the cause of the incident is a prudent approach until you have had a chance to consult about the best way to proceed in Patterson. Keeping records of all communications and directing the adjuster to documented medical records and incident reports helps preserve clarity. If you are unsure how to respond or are concerned about the implications of a statement, seeking guidance before engaging with adjusters protects your ability to obtain full compensation.
When a property owner denies responsibility, the focus shifts to gathering objective evidence that establishes the condition and the owner’s knowledge or responsibility. This may include maintenance records, witness statements, photographs, and any history of prior complaints. A careful investigation can reveal patterns or omissions that support a claim, and collecting credible documentation makes it easier to challenge denials. If disputes persist, formal processes such as discovery or depositions may be necessary to uncover relevant records and testimony. Litigation may be the appropriate path when evidence supports liability but the owner or insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, and preparing a well-documented case increases the chances of success in court.
Landlords can be held liable for injuries on rental properties when they fail to maintain safe conditions, ignore repair requests, or otherwise neglect duties required by lease agreements or local law. Liability often depends on whether the landlord knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and neglected to act. Tenants and visitors should document requests for repairs and report dangerous conditions in writing to create a record that the landlord was informed. In multi-unit properties, responsibilities may be shared between landlords, property managers, and tenants depending on lease terms and local ordinances. Gathering maintenance records, communications about needed repairs, and photographs of hazardous conditions helps establish whether landlord liability applies in a particular Patterson case.
Not every premises liability claim requires a lawsuit; many disputes are resolved through negotiations with insurers and property owners. When liability is clear and damages are well-documented, a fair settlement can often be reached without filing suit. However, when liability is disputed, injuries are significant, or insurers make inadequate offers, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to pursue full compensation and ensure preservation of rights under California law. Preparing for possible litigation while negotiating can strengthen your bargaining position. Thorough documentation, evidence preservation, and readiness to proceed to court demonstrate seriousness and often encourage more reasonable settlement offers from insurers seeking to avoid protracted litigation.
Preserving evidence begins with documenting the scene through photographs and notes, obtaining witness contact information, and requesting incident reports from the property owner or manager. If surveillance cameras may have captured the incident, request immediate preservation of footage before it is overwritten. Additionally, keep thorough medical records and receipts for expenses related to treatment and recovery, as these documents are central to establishing damages. Make written requests to preserve maintenance logs and other records that could show prior complaints or inspections. Store copies of all correspondence and avoid altering physical evidence. Timely preservation efforts increase the likelihood that critical information will be available for investigation and negotiation in a Patterson premises liability matter.
