In today’s world, almost everyone seems to be on Facebook and other social media sites, sharing and talking about their life. But there’s one thing that you need to know if you have a personal injury case – do not post anything on Facebook about your personal injury claim and what you are going through.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence and are wondering the best way to proceed with a claim, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we can help you assess your claim and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.
Why Shouldn’t I Post About My Personal Injury Case on Social Media?
If you’ve filed a personal injury claim, you might be tempted to share your experience and updates on social media. However, staying off social media during this time is crucial for protecting your case. While social media can be a great way to connect with friends and family, it can also become a double-edged sword in legal matters.
It is important to be mindful of the problems that can arise with Facebook postings and photos that your personal injury lawyer may not be aware of. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have seen various nightmare scenarios where, while a personal injury case is pending, a client or their spouse posts lots of pictures and makes lots of comments, some of which pertain to the health or condition of the person who has the personal injury.
As soon as a client retains our firm, we tell them not to post on any social media sites about their situation, condition, or health without consulting with us first because the insurance company, their lawyers, and investigators are searching your social media for any “evidence” they can use against you.
My Profiles Are Set to Private. Doesn’t That Make a Difference?
Many people believe their privacy settings will protect them from scrutiny, but this is often untrue. Insurance companies can use various methods to access your online activity, even if your profile is private.
Insurance adjusters frequently monitor social media for evidence to undermine claims. They may hire investigators to look into your online presence and find anything that contradicts your statements about your injuries.
Once something is posted online, it can be challenging to remove it altogether. Even if you delete a post, screenshots and archives can exist indefinitely, potentially surfacing during legal proceedings. If you have posted anything in the past that you think could be used against you, it is important to let your personal injury attorney know so they can be prepared if the other side tries to use these posts as evidence against you.
How Can My Posts Be Used Against Me?
Any post or photo that can be interpreted as contradicting your claim may provide grounds for the insurance company to dispute your case. They may argue that you’re exaggerating your injuries or that your lifestyle post-accident doesn’t align with your claims of suffering.
Social media posts can be used as evidence if your case goes to trial. For example, a photo showing you engaging in activities that are inconsistent with your injury claims could weaken your accident case significantly.
Insurance companies may be less willing to negotiate a fair settlement if they find damaging information on your social media profiles. They may use social media findings to justify lower settlement offers or even deny your injury claim altogether.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Injured in an Accident?
If you have been injured because of the negligence of another party or parties, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure you receive the treatment you need. You should also document all details related to the incident, including dates, times, and witnesses.
The next step is to call 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation with one of our dedicated personal injury lawyers. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have obtained more than $100 million in settlements and awards for our clients and will work diligently to get you the financial compensation you deserve.