We live our lives online. When something big happens—like a car accident—our instinct is to post about it. We want support from friends and family. But if you are involved in a personal injury clai...
We live our lives online. When something big happens—like a car accident—our instinct is to post about it. We want support from friends and family. But if you are involved in a personal injury claim, your social media profiles become a goldmine for insurance investigators. They are watching your Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, looking for anything they can use to deny your claim.
The 'I'm Fine' Mistake
Posting 'I was in a crash but I'm okay!' to reassure your mom is a natural reaction. But the insurance company will print that screenshot and show it to a jury. 'See? She said she was fine right after the crash.' They will use your own words to argue that your injuries aren't serious.
Photos of Activity
If you claim you have a debilitating back injury, but you post a photo of yourself at a wedding, on a boat, or even just holding a heavy child, your credibility is destroyed. Even old photos posted as 'Throwbacks' can be misunderstood as current activities. Context doesn't matter to them; the image does.
Check-Ins and Location Data
Checking in at the gym, a theme park, or a bar can be used against you. 'If he was in so much pain, how could he go to Disney World?' They build a timeline of your life that contradicts your medical claims.
Private Isn't Private
Setting your profile to 'Private' helps, but it's not a shield. Investigators can follow your friends to see tagged photos of you. In litigation, defense lawyers can subpoena your social media data, forcing you to hand over even private posts.
The Golden Rule: Go Dark
The best advice we give our clients is to suspend their social media accounts during the case. If you can't do that, then DO NOT post anything about the accident, your injuries, or your daily activities. Ask friends and family not to tag you in photos. Assume the insurance adjuster is one of your followers.
Contact Emas Law Group Today
Social media is a trap for injury victims. Don't let a tweet cost you your settlement. At Emas Law Group, we guide you on how to protect your digital privacy while we fight for your real-world compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete old posts?
NO. Deleting posts after an accident can be considered 'spoliation of evidence' and can severely hurt your case. Talk to your lawyer before deleting anything.
What if I post about something unrelated?
It's risky. Even a happy selfie can be used to argue you aren't suffering from mental anguish or depression. It's best to post nothing.
Do they really look at everyone's social media?
Yes. It is standard procedure for claims adjusters and defense attorneys to search for plaintiffs online immediately.