In this age of connectivity, social media has become a primary facilitator. Whenever you post something, it may have repercussions, especially if you find yourself involved in a personal injury case.
Anything you post is available for anyone to see, even if you have a close circle of friends. Tagging and sharing make it impossible to control who does and does not see your posts. Keep this in mind the next time you get the urge to post an update.
Is this a current photograph?
Something that seems benign to you may send your personal injury case into a tailspin. For example, if you claim to have an injury that makes it difficult to get out and about, any photo you post that proves otherwise can become evidence against you. Even if a friend tags you at a birthday party, the defense will examine every detail and try to use it to negate all or some of your claims.
Are you saying the right thing?
You can place yourself in jeopardy by discussing any aspect of your claim. Public commentary about the details of your incident, or the defendant in particular, does not make you appear upstanding. Even if your post is not negative, it may appear that way to the outside eye. You should never share details about your claim online.
Did you take something down?
When you go back and delete a post, you should know that it does not ever truly disappear. There are digital footprints, including the likelihood that someone also commented or shared it. Deleting a post that may cast you in an unfavorable light makes your action that much worse in the eyes of the court.
The bottom line is that you should stay off social media during any court action, especially involving a personal injury claim.