In the social media age, it has become an ordinary thing for people to share their lives online. People pose photos, tell the world about their whereabouts, and update their statuses. They have become used to documenting their day-to-day experience for their loved ones, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. But while this online activity may seem harmless, it can have unexpected consequences, particularly if you have an active personal injury lawsuit. A Miami personal injury lawyer can explain to you the possible dangers of social media in your personal injury case.
The Risks of Oversharing
When you pursue a personal injury claim, you must reduce your social media activity or avoid social media for the time being. Insurers and the opposing attorney may turn to social media to collect evidence against you. Even simple posts like sharing a photo of you spending time at a vacation spot can be misinterpreted and used to weaken your case.
Let us say you are seeking compensation for back injuries and pain. Posting photos of yourself partying or taking part in physical activity can be used to question the severity or even existence of your injuries.
Investigators Can Get Information through Your Connections
Even if you adjust the privacy settings of your social media page, insurance companies and investigators can still find you or learn something about you through the posts or screenshots of your friends. In addition, you may need to share access to your social media accounts when you go through the discovery process.
The Effects on Your Case
Oversharing on social media while your personal injury lawsuit is ongoing can lead to serious consequences such as the following:
- Decreased compensation. Your social media activity can be used to argue that the injuries you suffered aren’t as serious as you claim. This can lead to reduced compensation.
- Legal delays. The opposing attorney can use your online activity to question the timing of the injuries you sustain. This can result in legal delays and prolong the court battles.
- Loss of credibility. Any social media posts that contradict your claims can ruin your credibility. This makes it more difficult to convince the jury that you have legitimate injuries.
- Privacy invasion. As your social media accounts are accessed during discovery, it can feel like your privacy has been invaded.
Your personal injury attorney will advise you against being too active on social media during your case. They can also monitor your posts to make sure you don’t share anything damaging. Your attorney will respond to challenges and educate you about how social media can ruin your case.
