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Personal injury attorneys often advise their clients to stay off social media during the duration of their case, and for good reason. Social media posts can be used against victims in personal injury cases, potentially damaging their chances of receiving fair compensation.
When a person files a personal injury claim, they are essentially stating that they have suffered physical or emotional harm due to someone else’s negligence. The victim seeks compensation from the responsible party for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, among other damages. To succeed in such claims, it is crucial to demonstrate that the injuries have indeed had a significant impact on the victim’s life.
However, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram or Twitter can paint an entirely different picture of one’s life post-accident. A simple photo of the victim smiling at a party or participating in physical activities could be misconstrued as evidence that their injuries aren’t as severe as claimed.
Insurance companies and defense attorneys are known to scrutinize social media accounts looking for any inconsistencies between what victims claim and how they present themselves online. They may argue that if you’re well enough to post pictures or updates about going out with friends or engaging in certain activities then you must not be suffering as much as you claim. This tactic can significantly undermine your credibility and negatively affect your settlement amount.
Even seemingly harmless posts can have detrimental effects on a case. For instance, sharing details about your accident or recovery process might inadvertently reveal information that could be used against you later on. Even expressing anger or frustration about the incident could potentially harm your case by painting you in a negative light.
In addition to this potential misuse of information by opposing parties, there’s also the risk associated with privacy settings on these platforms which are not foolproof; even when set at maximum levels there’s always potential for content leakage either through hacking attempts or simply by being shared around by friends who have access to it.
Therefore, while it may seem extreme, staying off social media entirely during a personal injury case is the safest course of action. If abstaining completely isn’t feasible, it’s advisable to post as little as possible and avoid discussing anything related to the accident or your health.
In conclusion, while social media can be a great tool for keeping in touch with friends and family, it can also be a minefield when you’re pursuing a personal injury claim. To protect yourself and your potential compensation, it’s best to heed your attorney’s advice and stay silent on these platforms until your case has been resolved.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
227 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
15708654699
