In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become integral parts of our daily lives, allowing us to connect with friends, share experiences, and document our adventures. However, when it comes to personal injury claims, what you post on social media could have unintended consequences.
As any injury lawyer will often tell you, what you post on social media can make or break your personal injury claim, no matter how strong your case is. Our friends from Council & Associates, LLC explain why discretion on social media is essential while your personal injury claim progresses.
The Perils Of Oversharing On Social Media While Your Case Is Pending
Social media platforms are treasure troves of personal information, and insurance companies and defense attorneys are not afraid to scour them for evidence that could undermine your claim. Even innocuous posts or photos could be misinterpreted or taken out of context to discredit your injuries or the severity of the accident.
Imagine you’re pursuing compensation for a back injury sustained in a car accident, and you post a photo of yourself hiking with friends. While you may feel fine in the moment, that single image could be used to argue that your injury isn’t as debilitating as you claim it to be, potentially jeopardizing your chances of receiving fair compensation.
The Power Of Privacy Settings
Many people mistakenly believe that adjusting their privacy settings or deleting incriminating posts after the fact will protect them from scrutiny. However, once something is posted online, it can be nearly impossible to completely erase it. Moreover, defense attorneys are adept at uncovering deleted posts and using them against you in court.
Instead of relying on privacy settings or deleting posts, the best course of action is to refrain from posting altogether or exercise extreme caution when sharing anything on social media during the course of your personal injury claim.
Advice For Social Media Use During A Personal Injury Claim
Our College Park injury lawyer has some important reminders for plaintiffs in personal injury cases, although this is not a substitute for advice from your own personal injury attorney:
- Think Before You Post: Before sharing anything on social media, consider how it could potentially be perceived by others, including insurance adjusters, defense attorneys, and jurors. If in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution and refrain from posting altogether.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case: Resist the temptation to vent about your accident, injuries, or legal proceedings on social media.
- Monitor Your Friends’ Posts: Even if you’re careful about what you post, your friends’ posts could still inadvertently harm your case. Politely ask them to refrain from tagging you in photos or posts related to activities that could be misconstrued.
- Consult with Your Lawyer: If you’re unsure about whether a particular post or photo could impact your case, don’t hesitate to consult with your lawyer before sharing it.
In the age of social media, exercising discretion is paramount, especially when you’re involved in a personal injury claim. By refraining from posting or carefully curating what you share online, you can avoid unwittingly undermining your case and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.