Just Say “No” to Social Media” 

Social media is here to stay.  Indeed, it has become part of the younger generation’s DNA!  When we sign a new client, we always warn them about the dangers of social media posts.  In doing so, we ask them not to post anything for at least six months, but unfortunately, not all clients heed our advice. 
If you have been injured in an accident and simply cannot live without social media, here are simple guidelines to follow: (1) Never discuss the incident, whether it’s an accident, slip and fall, animal attack, etc.; (2) Never discuss your injuries – physically, emotionally or mentally; (3) Do not post any photos of yourself; (4) Do not discuss any activity you are participating in; (5) Do not discuss or post any photos of any location you visit; and (6) Do not allow the people close to you to post anything about you or your activities on their own accounts either! 
Why so strict? Here is a real-life example that will explain:  Recently, State Farm refused to pay out a $50,000 policy limit on a case in which the client had $42,000 in medical bills. By all accounts, payment of the policy limit should have been the clear-cut outcome. At the settlement conference, however, it came to light that State Farm had gone on the client’s husband’s Facebook account and discovered photographs and video of the client surfing and riding roller coasters during the same time frame that she was complaining of back pain.    
You can imagine how that would have looked in front of a jury.  It severely undercut the client’s credibility and her injury claim.  You may think, “But, my settings are private.”  Unfortunately, there is no such thing as total privacy when it comes to social media. 
For more information about The Mason Law Firm call 661-476-5678 or go to www.mrscvlaw.com.