It might seem normal to post updates online after a car accident. You could tell your friends what happened, let them know you're okay, or talk about how you're feeling. But what you post could hurt your case. When looking at a claim, insurance companies and defense lawyers often check social media. An experienced lawyer can help you figure out how these posts could be used against you and what you should stay away from while your case is still open.
Call the Norfolk car accident lawyers at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule your free consultation and find out what course of action we recommend for your situation.
Why Is the Insurance Companies Looking at My Social Media?
Insurance companies are always looking for ways to lower their costs. One way they do this is by looking at your social media accounts. They are looking for anything that doesn't match what you said about the accident or your injuries.
If you say you're in a lot of pain but then post pictures of yourself having fun with friends, they might try to use that against you. Even if the post doesn't show the whole picture of your health, it can still make people wonder.
This is a common part of how claims are handled, and it is one reason why speaking with a Norfolk car accident lawyer early on can be really helpful.
Can My Posts Really Be Used in Court?
In a lot of cases, yes, your social media posts can be used as proof. If your case goes to court, the other side might try to use posts, photos, or comments to argue against what you say.
If it's relevant, courts usually let this kind of evidence in. This means that even posts you think are safe could come back to haunt you. If you delete posts after the accident, it could also cause problems because it could make people think you're hiding evidence.
Because of this, it is important to be careful about what you share from the very beginning.
What Types of Posts Can Hurt My Case?
Some posts are more likely to cause issues than others. Anything that goes against your claim or downplays your injuries can be used against you.
Here are some examples of posts that may hurt your case:
- Photos or videos showing physical activity that seems inconsistent with your injuries
- Comments that suggest you are feeling fine or not seriously hurt
- Posts about the accident that differ from your official statement
- Check-ins or location tags that show you are more active than expected
- Jokes or casual remarks that could be taken the wrong way
Even if these posts are taken out of context, they can still be used to call your credibility into question.
Should I Stop Using Social Media After an Accident?
You do not always have to stop using social media completely, but it is often safer to limit what you share. The less you post about your accident, your health, or your daily activities, the better.
It may also be a good idea to review your privacy settings. However, even private posts may be obtained through the legal process if they are relevant to the case. That is why it is important to assume that anything you post could be seen by others.
A Norfolk car accident lawyer can give you guidance on how to handle social media while your case is ongoing.
Can Other People’s Posts Affect My Claim?
Yes, things that friends or family post can also have an effect on your case. People might still look at a post or picture that tags you or talks about you.
For example, if a friend posts a picture of you at an event, it could be used to show that you are more active than you say you are. Even if you didn't post it yourself, it can still be used in the case.
While your claim is still open, you might want to ask your friends and family not to post about you.
What Happens If I Already Posted Something?
Don't worry if you've already talked about the accident or your injuries. That doesn't mean you automatically lose your case. But you should be careful about what you do next.
Don't delete posts without first talking to a lawyer. Taking down content could look like trying to hide proof. Talk to a Norfolk car accident lawyer about your case instead. They can help you figure out what to do next.
How Can I Protect My Claim From This Point On?
Being careful about what you do online can help your case. It's usually best not to talk about your accident and recovery on social media.
Follow your doctor's instructions and keep track of your treatment. Let your lawyer handle communication with the insurance company and the other side.
Taking these steps can help reduce the chances of your social media activity being used against you.
Speak With a Norfolk Car Accident Lawyer
The Norfolk car accident lawyers at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp have a combined century of experience helping people after serious road traffic accidents. If someone else caused your accident, we can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, prove fault, and work toward a fair settlement. We have been recovering strong settlements for injured clients since 1985, including a $1 million settlement for a crash caused by a driver who failed to yield.
If you would like to talk about your situation, you can schedule a free consultation by calling (833) 997-1774 or filling out our online contact form. To better serve clients across Virginia, we have offices in Norfolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, and Hampton.
