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Why you should stay off social media during your personal injury lawsuit

On Behalf of | Oct 29, 2024 | Personal Injury |

If you are going through a personal injury lawsuit, you know the feelings that can come with this process: frustration, anger, perhaps embarassment.

All of these emotions are normal. However, it is essential to process them correctly and in the appropriate space. Some clients overlook the dangers of posting on social media during this time, to their detriment.

Staying offline

When you’re injured, recovering or involved in a claim, it can feel tempting to vent online. Many use social media to connect with others and update their friends and loved ones about their lives.

Whether on Instagram, X, TikTok, Snapchat, or Facebook, sharing photos, videos, a post or commenting on someone else’s post,  common everyday actions can potentially hurt your case. 

The real risks of using social media

Insurance companies and their attorneys will want to have as much information about you, your claim and your injuries as possible. They WILL search for you online to gather some of that information—for example, photos of yourself, posts, and more.

If you sustained an injury in an accident and an attorney or insurance company finds photos of you online inconsistent with the injury you claim to have, this might get you in hot water. Even a picture of you enjoying a day with friends can be used against you in court.

Easy to misunderstand

Social media can easily lead to misunderstandings. Friends and people you know could inadvertently share details about your personal life, including your case, with others.

Even a simple comment on someone else’s public page where you express what great a time you are having can jeopardize the integrity of your case.

Focus on your healing

Most importantly, staying offline allows you to focus on your recovery without distractions. In many cases, social media can cause additional anxiety and stress, which can hurt your recovery.

In conclusion, while checking those apps or sharing your journey online might be tempting, the risks outweigh the benefits. Consult with your attorney before you post anything online. It is ALWAYS safer to avoid social media entirely while you are involved in any sort of litigation.

 

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