How Posting on Your Social Media Can Hurt Your Case
Worldwide, nearly 5 billion people are on social media. Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok are among the most common platforms connecting us with our friends and family. For many, sharing the details of their lives on social media is commonplace. When you are involved in something as frightening and traumatic as a car accident, you want to share what happened with those close to you. But doing so on social media can cost you.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident, our attorneys are here to help. At Coker Law, our Jacksonville personal injury lawyers have assisted injured victims since 1976. We have secured millions in settlements by utilizing our extensive knowledge and resources. So if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, reach out to our skilled legal team. Call (904) 356-6071 today to speak with an attorney for free.
Why You Should Stay Off of Social Media After an Accident
Insurance companies want to save money. That is why they look for any and all ways to either avoid liability or minimize your payout. The following are three ways your social media posts can hurt your chances of securing compensation in a car accident injury claim.
Insurance Companies Are Looking for Evidence to Support Their Case
After a claim has been filed, it is very common for the insurance company to view your social media. Adjusters are looking for anything they can use to deny your claim - or at the very least, pay out as little as possible. If you are posting on social media, the insurance company will look for information that contradicts your claim. For example, if you are claiming you suffered severe injuries and are unable to work, yet there are photos on Facebook showing you participating in your favorite 5K race, they can and will dispute your claim.
Insurance companies will also look at your posts to see whether you make any statements eluding to the fact that you are “fine” or “okay.” This can give them the fuel they need to claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you are stating.
Your Social Media Posts Can Be Used In Court
Everything you post on social media is considered public information. They can be subpoenaed by the other driver’s insurance company and used against you either during the claims process or in the courtroom.
Let’s say you tell the insurance company you are experiencing severe back pain, yet a few weeks later, you or someone you know posts a photo of you on a hike. The photo can be used as evidence that you are no longer suffering from back pain and, therefore, not entitled to compensation.
Posting on Social Meda Can Delay Your Claim
If you are posting on social media - even if you are not in any way posting about the accident - the insurance might decide to delay your claim and wait for you to post something, anything, that can be used to deny your claim or pay you less than what you deserve. The company can do things to prolong the claims process, hoping you eventually post something they can use against you. If they decide to delay your claim, you might be forced to wait months or even years to settle your claim and secure damages.
What You Should Do After a Car Accident
After an accident, you should immediately see a doctor. Getting a thorough medical exam will ensure your injuries are identified and treated but also provide proof of the nature and extent of your injuries.
Once you have seen and been treated by a doctor, you should talk to an attorney. A Jacksonville personal injury lawyer will talk to you about what happened to determine whether you have a valid claim. If so, he or she will investigate the accident and collect evidence to support your claim. Your attorney will also advise what to do - and what not to do - during the claims process. Lastly, your lawyer will work with the insurance company to get you the largest settlement possible.
Injured in a Car Accident? We Can Help
We rely on our friends and family during difficult times. Being injured in a car crash is one of those times. However, reaching out to loved ones on Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platform can throw away your chances of securing compensation from the at-fault party.
If you or someone you love sustained serious injuries in an auto accident, you might have the right to secure much-needed compensation. At Coker Law, we fight tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. We know just how far-reaching the effects of a serious injury can be. That is why we work hard to get you the maximum compensation possible. Plus, there are no fees unless we win your case. To learn more, contact us online or call (904) 356-6071 to schedule a complimentary consultation.
