When injured due to the negligence of another party, you may file a claim against them to recover compensation for the damages you have sustained. However, you may be shocked to find your social media accounts can and will be used against you. If you have been injured at the hands of another person, it is in your best interest to connect with experienced Irvine personal injury lawyers who can help guide you through the process of pursuing justice. Keep reading to learn why you should limit your online presence amid a personal injury lawsuit.
When hurt in a personal injury case and you subsequently bring a lawsuit against the other party involved for their negligence, they will do everything possible to prove that you are not as injured as you claim to reduce how much they may have to pay you. The defense’s investigation will likely begin with scouring your social media profiles for evidence.
For example, if you are suing for non-economic damages like pain and suffering, posting a photo of you at a party with friends can be used to show that the injuries, such as a back or neck injury, have not impacted your ability to live a normal life, as you are smiling, happy, and otherwise appear uninjured. Similarly, if you claim to have a concussion, for example, but post a photo attending a rock concert, this can easily be held against you.
Even spending time liking posts or watching videos can be used to show that your injuries are not severe, and the defense will argue that you are not suffering since you can spend time on your phone.
Additionally, if you post anything regarding your case, it can be held against you. This includes saying anything about the incident details because posting something that contradicts what you told police and the insurance companies can be used against you.
Avoiding social media and making your profiles private amid a personal injury lawsuit is critical to protecting your case. As such, you should refrain from posting, liking, reposting, or even spending too much time scrolling on your accounts. However, keep in mind that even if your accounts are set to private you may still be at risk as insurance companies and attorneys have means to circumvent these methods of protection.
Additionally, you should tell your friends and family members not to post any photos of you. For example, if you are in the background of a picture posted on a friend’s account, even though it is not on your profile, it can still be used against you.
As you can see, doing everything possible to recover following a personal injury is critical. Something you should not underestimate is the importance of hiring an experienced attorney to help you through these matters. At California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, our dedicated team can help you determine the best course of action. Contact us today.
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