Social media is a prevalent feature of our modern society and many of us partake in sharing with our friends, family, and acquaintances through more than one platform. We share everything from our daily activities and vacation pictures to our innermost thoughts and current frustrations. Our lives are essentially out there for everyone to see. For most, this will almost never be a major problem, but if you are in the midst of a personal injury case, it could be incredibly detrimental and derail the outcome of it.
How could something so seemingly innocuous cost you fair and just compensation? Read on to find out:
- Privacy settings might not keep things private: Are your privacy settings set in a way that makes your posts viewable by a limited number of people? That might make you feel secure, but this is a false sense of security. These settings only make it difficult for one to access your content, but nothing is impossible. Additionally, there are terms of service agreements that you agreed to when you signed up for your account, which allow social media websites to release the content you post to the authorities under certain circumstances. Knowing this, why take the risk and continue to create new posts when there is a high likelihood they will be taken out of context and used against you?
- Photos can be used as evidence: If you suffered an injury, such as a broken leg or arm, and are later seeing at a friend’s birthday party, smiling and appearing to have a good time, this can be used against you. While many of us know that pictures do not necessarily tell the whole story, and you are likely just trying to feel normal despite your pain, the opposing side will use pictures like these as evidence that your injuries are not as serious as you claimed them to be. In fact, since pain and suffering is often a substantial element in compensation, your award might significantly be reduced if it seems that you were not that affected by the injuries you sustained. Do not let the insurance companies avoid compensating you for your pain by posting these types of photos. It would also be wise to ask others not to tag you in photographs for the time being.
- Avoid making certain posts: As a general rule, you should avoid social media altogether. After all, no post is worth losing on compensation. However, if you absolutely cannot stay logged off, there are some things you should keep in mind moving forward:
- Avoid making status updates about traveling
- Avoid making fitness updates or posts about your workout routine
- Avoid location check-ins
- Avoid comments that admit to fault
- Avoid making negative comments about the at-fault party
There is no denying that social media is a fun activity many of us enjoy. It is often one of the primary ways in which we are able to maintain contact with those whom we might not be able to spend time with frequently outside of the social media world, making this form of interaction all the more special. That said, when you are in the middle of a personal injury case, you should either take a break from it and use other means of contact, or exercise extreme caution. Remember, if you are worried about a judge seeing a post of yours, it means you should refrain from posting it.
Personal Injury Attorney in Phoenix
If you were recently involved in an accident caused by a negligent or careless individual, you might be entitled to compensation. At the Rafi Law Group, our Phoenix personal injury attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of the injured and will stand up for you against the insurance companies. Choose an attorney who will serve as your fierce legal advocate while you focus on healing.
If we cannot win your case, you will not owe us any legal fees.
Call us today at (623) 300-1151 to schedule a free case evaluation with a compassionate member of our Phoenix legal team.