Be Careful What You Say Online After an Accident

Whether or not you embrace social media fully, partially, or not at all, it is here to stay.  If you use social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Pinterest, and/or blog, be very careful what information you post after an accident.
For most people, getting into an accident, getting injured in a slip and fall, or getting attacked by a dog does not happen every day.   So, when something like that happens, it is only natural to want to share information about your experience with your friends and family.  Some may post information seeking support, while some post information to let others know that they are fine.  Whatever the reason, you should never talk about the incident or about your injuries online because it can and will come back to haunt you.
Insurance companies and defense attorneys (hired by insurance companies) have become savvy to the idea that people are social animals and want to share their experiences with others.  So, they are increasingly searching the web for information on injured victims.  Why?  Because they can find a goldmine of information which they will use to attack you and your injury claim.
So, if you are injured in an accident and post photos of the accident scene, talk about how the accident happened or about your injuries (or lack thereof), that information will be out there, and it can find its way to the insurance company or its defense attorneys to be used against you.
What about posting photos or updates not discussing the accident or injuries?  Again, be very careful.  Remember that any photo, update or video you put online can be used by the other side to attack your injuries, regardless of whether the photo, update or video talks about the accident or your injuries.
So, for example, if you have injured your neck and back in an accident, you should “NOT” be posting any photos, updates or videos showing you participating in mountain climbing, skydiving, or running a marathon after the accident. These are exaggerations, but nevertheless, you need to be aware that any information about your activities, regardless of how innocent they may be, “can and will be used against you.”
For more information, please call The Mason Law Firm at 661-476-5678 or email mason@mrscvlaw.com.