Posting On Social Media After An Accident: What Could Go Wrong?
Social media sites like Facebook and others are a daily (if not hourly) habit with many. When you have something to celebrate, you post it. When you need help, you ask for it. When you are in a car accident, you seek support. Unfortunately, social media is one place you need to leave alone after you've been hurt in a car wreck. Read on to find out more.
Another Point of View
While you might need some emotional support after an accident, it might be helpful to look at things from another point of view. When the other driver is likely at fault, their insurer will be investigating the accident very carefully. If the insurer can cast doubt on who was at fault for the wreck, they may not have to pay money to victims like you. Unfortunately, the accident adjuster's investigations can encompass several areas and the depth of the inquiry is dependent on the seriousness of your injury.
What Could Go Wrong?
Even innocent postings on social media can create problems with your case. Take a look at some common posting situations that could end up damaging your ability to be paid the compensation you deserve:
- You accidentally minimize the impact of the accident. It's natural to reassure concerned friends after you post about an accident. Unfortunately, your posts could appear to minimize how the accident is actually affecting you. The same issue could plague those who post about not being injured only to realize they have a head injury later on.
- Posting photos of you taking part in sports or other active events after being injured. Everyone has good days when their injuries don't bother them as much. Those photos, however, could be used to dispute your allegations of injuries. When it comes to medical costs, there is very little, other than fault, that influences the amount of your settlement more than more.
- Posting details of the accident that may either be incomplete, wrong, or speculation. For example, a post that says you aren't sure of your speed when the accident happened could be very damaging to your case.
Not Very Private
Social media users who think their postings are private may be in for a surprise when it comes to legal matters like a personal injury case. All postings are subject to a subpoena and the subsequent disclosure of all postings for use in a trial.
Rather than seeking support online, speak to an auto accident injury lawyer about your case today.
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