The Pew Research Center stated, “Today around seven-in-ten Americans use social media to connect with one another, engage with news content, share information and entertain themselves.”
Social media is widely used across society, but if people are not cautious about the content they post while trying to file a personal injury claim, it could greatly impact their chances of receiving compensation.
Whether you were injured due to a slip and fall, a work accident, or experienced the wrongful death of a loved one, our team of attorneys are here to evaluate the details of your case.
If you or a loved one has suffered at the hands of someone else’s careless actions, contact our New Jersey personal injury lawyers at The Law Offices of Peter N. Davis & Associates, LLC.
How Can Social Media Impact My Claim?
Numerous people use social media to post information and details about their life, but you should never post about the details of your accident or any injuries you may have suffered.
If an individual is filing a personal injury claim, they are usually trying to receive compensation for the damages and injuries they endured. Medical expenses can accumulate quickly, and if you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you could receive compensation for lost wages.
Oftentimes, insurance adjusters will check the social media pages of the claimant to see if there is any evidence that says anything otherwise about the injuries one claimed to have suffered. Sometimes social media pages contradict the testimony they gave about their injuries.
When Social Media And Your Testimony Are Contradictory
One thing countless people are unaware of is that during a settlement negotiation or trial if the case goes to court, anything posted on social media can be used as evidence.
It’s vital to always be honest about your injuries when filing an injury claim. If you post anything on social media that contradicts your claim, it could ruin your case.
Are Social Media Postings Public Record?
The answer is yes. Anything you post on the internet or others post about you is public. Postings on any social media outlet can be used as evidence and can be used against you. But private messages are not public record and cannot be accessed unless there is consent or a warrant that allows access to those messages.
Check-Ins On Social Media
Some people use “check-ins” on their social media accounts, which allows others to see the exact location they are visiting. Location postings can impact your injury claim because they can prove that you are in fact able to perform actions that you previously claimed you couldn’t. For example, if an individual is claiming they are unable to lift any heavy equipment due to a back injury but check-in at a gym, their testimony will likely be called into question. Avoid “check-in” posts on social media throughout the course of your injury case.
What Should I Avoid Posting On Social Media After An Accident?
It’s always important to use caution when posting anything on social media, but it’s especially imperative to use extra caution while going through a personal injury claim. Listed below are tips that may help you avoid damaging your injury case.
- Any updates about your condition- Do not post the details of any medical treatment you are receiving for your injuries.
- Photos of the accident scene- Photos of the accident can be used as evidence for your case, but should not be posted as public information.
- Photos of your injury or injuries- Injury photos should be given to your lawyer, but you should avoid posting those images anywhere else.
- Information regarding your case- The details of your case should be confidential, rather than updating your social media with the progress of your case.
- Any replies or arguments- Do not reply to anyone that posts about your case, such as news outlets or the defendant.
It’s in your best interest to implement these tips, so social media does not affect your injury case and any possible compensation you may be entitled to.
Tips For Social Media
Social media outlets can be dangerous to an injury claim, so it’s usually best to refrain from social media while your case is being handled. Even if you believe your postings are not related to your injury case, the most innocent posts can still possibly damage your claim. Listed below are tips you can use for your social media pages during your case:
- Suspend social media accounts for the duration of your injury case.
- Do not accept new friend requests.
- Ask your friends and family to set their profiles to private and not post any information about your case.
What Types Of Compensation Are Available For An Injury Claim
To determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to, our attorneys will need to evaluate your case. Various components are taken into account including the severity of your injury and the pain you have endured as a result of your injury. Compensation may include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property loss
- Mental anguish
Sometimes people don’t file an injury claim because they assume their case is not serious. If you have suffered any injuries while on the job or from a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. If you choose not to file an injury claim, you may be stuck with the medical bills rather than receiving compensation to cover those expenses. Our New Jersey personal injury lawyers can help you seek the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Contact Our Trusted Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has been injured, our New Jersey personal injury lawyers can help you navigate the legal process.
We understand how stressful and difficult it can be after suffering injuries due to someone else’s careless actions and we want to help.
If you’re hesitating because you believe your case is not strong enough, allow our team to review it and see what legal options may be available for your unique case.
Call The Law Offices of Peter N. Davis & Associates today at (973) 279-7246 or fill out our free consultation form.