Sharing on social media is almost second nature to most of us. While it keeps us connected, it can also impact your personal injury case. Be cautious about your social media use, especially during legal proceedings.

The Impact of Your Posts

Seemingly harmless posts about vacations, home improvements, or financial milestones can be misconstrued and used against you in a personal injury claim. Insurance companies and opposing counsel may use this information to argue that your injury is not as severe as claimed or that it has not significantly impacted your quality of life.

Discovery and Court Orders

Even private or deleted accounts can be subject to discovery or court orders. Opposing parties may request access to your social media histories. Courts often allow this if the information is deemed relevant to the case, highlighting the need to think twice before posting anything.

Private Versus Public Profiles

While setting your profiles to private can offer some protection, it is not foolproof. Legal entities may still access your content through court orders or mutual connections. Avoid deleting accounts as this could be perceived as an attempt to destroy evidence, which can have legal ramifications.

Be Cautious With Connections

Avoid accepting friend requests or followers from unknown individuals during your case. They may have ulterior motives, such as gathering information for the opposing side. Maintain your current connections and scrutinize new requests.

Limit or Avoid Social Media Use

Consider limiting your social media usage or consulting with your lawyer before posting anything. Your lawyer can provide guidance on what is safe to share and what could potentially harm your case. When in doubt, it's best to stay silent online.

If you're involved in a personal injury case, don’t take chances—consult with an attorney before making any decisions about social media use.