Posted on Monday, April 9th, 2018 at 6:45 pm    

With Facebook in the news lately being forced to answer questions about profile safety and privacy, it is an appropriate time to review the dangers of using social media after a car accident. If we have learned anything over the past few years, it is that our information online is not as secure as we may want to believe, including social media posts.

While there is nothing inherently wrong with using social media after a traffic accident, you should understand the risk of posting information after a car crash.  You also need to understand how that information could be used against you in a personal injury claim.

Using Social Media Posts as Evidence

As we have learned, posts on social media accounts have a way of becoming public even though we may set privacy settings as high as possible. Friends of friends may access our information and repost pictures and comments. Defense attorneys are aware of the power of social media. Therefore, they routinely search for online posts from accident victims to use as evidence in personal injury cases.

A jury could misconstrue an innocent picture or post as evidence you are not as severely injured as you claim. A picture of you at your niece’s birthday party or a comment to a friend that you are doing “fine” or “great” could hurt your case. Therefore, it is best to refrain from posting on social media until your case is settled.

You may believe your information is private and the insurance company cannot gain access. However, some courts across the country are ruling in favor of defense attorneys who seek access to social media accounts. In some cases, the court may order you to produce copies of your posts or provide your login information. Therefore, it is best to err on the side of caution. You should assume anything you post may be accessible to the defense in a personal injury case.

Tips for Using Social Media After a Car Accident

The best advice is to avoid using social media after any car accident. However, if you cannot give up social media, these tips can help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your case.

  • Do not post pictures!
  • Do not discuss your accident, injuries, or recovery. Any comments you make about the accident could be used as evidence by the other side.
  • When commenting, make sure you that you do not say anything about your condition, such as “doing fine” or “feeling great.”
  • Avoid discussing any physical activities, including housework, cooking, working, shopping, etc.
  • Do not discuss financial matters, including medical costs or loss of income.

Your attorney may have additional advice about using social media after a San Leandro traffic accident. Therefore, make sure to discuss this topic with your attorney as soon as possible.

San Leandro Accident Attorneys

If you are injured in a car accident, call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website for a free consultation with a San Leandro personal injury attorney.

Our legal team guides you through the process of filing an injury claim to recover compensation from a negligent driver. Let us help you protect your right to recover full compensation for all damages.

Client Testimonials

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Maye Ly Testimonial
Quote

I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
Quote

Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
Quote

I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.