Many adults in the United States have at least one social media account. Some post daily or even multiple times a day about every minor and significant event in their lives.
While social media can be a great way to stay current with family and friends, it can also have a dark side. Social media posts can be used to your detriment.
In Oklahoma City personal injury cases, social media is often used strategically to support or defend against claims. In most cases, insurance companies and defense attorneys try to use an injury victim’s social media posts to deny or minimize liability.
You need to know how your social media accounts can negatively impact your personal injury claim. Discuss whether and how to use social media with your personal injury attorney and take their advice until your case has been resolved.
Negative Impacts of Social Media Posts on Personal Injury Claims
You may be surprised to learn how defense attorneys can use your social media posts against you, even when you think you have been careful. Some things to consider before posting include:
Your Posts May Appear to Contradict Your Testimony
A post that contradicts your Oklahoma City car accident claim can ruin your case.
For example, if your leg was broken in an accident, you may claim you can no longer enjoy the same sports and activities as before. Posting about running a 5K, going ice skating, or showing you out on the dance floor would be unwise.
You could inadvertently hurt your case even if the post is of someone else. For example, if you post a picture of your kids hiking, the defense attorney may ask who took the photograph. If you took the photo, they may argue that you are not as injured as you claim if you can go on hikes with your children.
Check-Ins
Even if you do not post any photos, if your social media accounts show a check-in at your regular exercise class, it could harm your case. Likewise, if you have many check-ins anywhere, it can show that you are out enjoying life as usual and that your injuries are not adversely impacting your quality of life.
Other People’s Posts
Even your family and friends’ social media posts could hurt your case. If they post photos or comments that appear to contradict your claims or make any comments about how much money you want to be paid for your losses, the defense may use them against you.
Your witnesses can hurt your evidence and show you in a negative light without even realizing what they are doing. You should instruct them to refrain from commenting on you or your case.
You must be careful about using social media when you have a pending personal injury case. In addition to not posting anything that could be used against you, do not accept new friend requests from someone you do not know.
Defense attorneys routinely search social media for anything they can use to deny or devalue your claim. Don’t give them any ammunition.
Contact an Experienced Oklahoma City Personal Injury Attorney
If you have a personal injury claim, you need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney who knows what to expect from defense attorneys. You need an attorney who understands how technology like social media can be used against you and what to do about it.
The personal injury lawyers at Warhawk Legal have over 20 years of experience protecting the rights of Oklahoma injury victims. We understand insurance company’s and defense attorneys’ tactics and know how to beat them at their own game.
We will customize a legal strategy to build your strongest case. After hiring our OKC personal injury lawyer, we will advise you on steps to take and hazards to avoid while your case is pending. From the moment we take your case, you will be guided by experienced, skillful attorneys with a proven track record of winning big for our clients.
Call us at (405) 397-1717 or visit our contact page now to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.