If you have recently been involved in a motor vehicle wreck, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is being cautious on social media. If you’re like most Americans, you’re probably tempted to vent about your situation on social media right now because it is an easy way to express your concerns and to fill your loved ones in on what’s happening in your life simultaneously.
And yet, it is important to be cautious on social media until your legal situation is resolved. Why? Opposing counsel, insurance claims adjusters and other interested parties are almost certainly going to scour your activity for anything that they can use to undermine the strength of your case. As even seemingly innocent material can be twisted against you, it’s better to avoid social media platforms right now altogether.
But… you can’t?
If you’re someone who is self-admittedly addicted to your phone, you’re required to use social media for work, you have a massive following to maintain or you otherwise can’t log off right now, it’s important to simply be very, very careful when engaging with others on any social media platform until your case has concluded.
Even though it probably sounds like a creepy, paranoid approach, it can be helpful if you imagine that an insurance claims adjuster (or other interested party) is looking over your shoulder at every single thing you post, questioning whether it could be used to devalue your compensation award. That picture of you holding your nephew over your head? Your shoulder must not be really that hurt, right? Think like that and you’ll be in better shape to defend your position.
With that said, should you have any questions about your case or how your social media activity could influence its outcome, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance. When it comes to seeking a just resolution to a complicated situation, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
