After A Car Accident Avoid These Social Media Blunders

In an era in which sharing our adventures and misadventures have become the norm, we may need to ask ourselves: do we need to publicly share our car accidents?

Everyday people post, tweet, snap and Instagram photos and videos of their accident from earlier that day. If a claim is brought, the insurance companies usually look online for public documentation of the accident, as well as anything available about the parties who filed the claim.

Insurance providers use social media accounts like Facebook, Twitter and 9instagram to see what you are doing and saying following your accident. photos listed as publicly visible. The photos, videos and statements you share with friends may be used against you in your claim.

Let’s take a moment to step inside the shoes of defendant’s attorney. If you are trying to prove that the plaintiff is exaggerating the significance of the injuries sustained, you look for evidence to show that the daily life of the injured party is unchanged. Even if the injured victim’s life has changed drastically, a jury might have a hard time overlooking photos and video evidence to points to the contrary.

It is especially important to follow doctor recommendations when recovering. For example, it would be unwise for a potentially concussed car accident victim to drink and party. Even if the victim only went out one night, the defense can make you look like a faker. A couple of misconstrued photos after your auto accident can cost you your injury claim.

Does this mean that after an accident we should hermit ourselves to avoid photos?

Absolutely not. Part of the recovery process after a car crash is emotional and spending time with friends and family is almost always part of healing. As always, following medical recommendations is critical to ensuring a maximum recovery.

If sitting for long periods of time causes you pain, perhaps a night watching theater may need to be postponed. If you are receiving chiropractic care for your shoulder, then maybe you should be on the bench cheering on your teammates instead of playing in the outfield. When somebody says “cheese,” think about how that photo may be perceived in your car accident claim.