How Social Media Can Negatively Affect Your Personal Injury Claim?
Social media influences a lot of aspects of people’s lives. Some people look at their social media pages first thing in the morning and before they go to bed. But if you have been injured in an accident and want to pursue a personal injury claim, keep in mind that using social media can have serious implications on your case. While your case is ongoing, you must consider how your presence online can be scrutinized by insurers or defense lawyers and used against your case in court. RSH Legal – Iowa Personal Injury Lawyers will usually advise against being active on social media before claims are resolved. Here’s why:
Contradicting Claims
Social media posts that show your physical activity can seriously undermine your injury claim. For example, if you claim serious injuries but you post photos or videos of you on social media showing that you engage in hiking, running, or visiting exotic destinations, such posts can be used against you.
Usually, the lawyer of the defendant scours social media for this evidence to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claimed. This contradicts your assertions about your physical limitations.
Fault Admissions
You could inadvertently admit fault or liability for the accident or your injuries through a comment or statement you made on social media. For instance, if you were in a car crash and posted about this accident on social media, admitting blame or making ambiguous statements that could be an admission of guilt could be used against you. Even if you say these things without ill intent, they can affect your case’s outcome.
Credibility Damage
Some social media posts can ruin your credibility or character in court. This includes posts that portray you in a negative light like using illegal substances or engaging in careless behavior. Usually, social media profiles are scrutinized for evidence that could suggest you are untrustworthy.
If you have a personal injury claim, you must handle your social media with discretion. Posting details regarding the accident can reduce control over access to this narrative when legal proceedings start. Also, making comments or uploading photos about everyday activities following the accident might seem harmless; however, this could show that you are enjoying life, which contradicts your claim.
In addition, discussions about work may provide the other party a reason to challenge your claim’s authenticity associated with your lost income and loss of future earning capacity. Online statements that show you taking part in business activities can contradict the wages you lost because of an injury.
