These days, it’s common to use social media to express thoughts and share life updates with a network of friends or followers. Although it’s okay to post an interesting article you’ve read, it is not okay to post that you were involved in a car accident and are “fine.”
While it may seem like you are doing good by informing your social media network that you are fine, posting this type of update can actually hurt your personal injury case. If you are involved in a personal injury case, contact the Houston personal injury lawyers at The Krist Law Firm, P.C. today at (281) 283-8500.
How Insurance Companies and Defendants Use Social Media
If you were in a serious car accident and experienced back pain that has made it challenging for you to work or continue playing a sport or participating in an extracurricular activity, an insurance company can search for your Facebook account to find evidence that proves this is not the case. In the event that your Facebook account is public, an insurance company may be able to find Facebook posts or pictures that demonstrate you are okay and are not suffering from any pain. For example, a picture of you hiking outside or laying on a tropical beach may be used to show you are in fact, okay and able to work and resume your daily activities.
Protect Yourself by Being Proactive
Although it can be difficult to resist the urge to post on social media, avoiding social media until your lawsuit has been settled can make a significant difference in the outcome of your personal injury case. If you must use social media, be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Avoid posts about the accident as these types of posts are prime targets that insurance companies would like to see and use against you.
- Avoid mentioning anything about your medical condition, injuries, treatments, recovery process, or feelings about your health. These types of updates could conflict with the statements a personal injury lawyer presents to the court and hurt your case.
- Increase your privacy settings so that individuals who you do not know you are not able to access your personal information.
- Perform a Google search of your name to see what insurance companies would see if they did the same. Try to make any listings that you do not want others to see private or remove them altogether.
It’s crucial to remember that the insurance company or defendant will do whatever it takes to weaken your claim and prove that you did not suffer from any injuries or your injuries were not as serious as you claim. By being cautious of your social media activity, you can ensure your case is strong and increase your chances of obtaining the maximum compensation you may be entitled to.
Injured? Call The Krist Law Firm, P.C. Today
It’s better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, if you can avoid the temptation to post on social media during the span of your personal injury case, you will do yourself and your case a huge favor. For experienced legal representation for your personal injury case, contact the Houston personal injury lawyers at The Krist Law Firm, P.C. at (281) 283-8500 for a free consultation.