If you were injured in a car accident, you might be tempted to post details about it on social media. While posting on social media may be the quickest way to update friends and family about the accident, you should avoid posting on your social media platforms. Pictures and comments about the accident can be taken out of context and used against you, which can harm your personal injury claim.
Why Should I Avoid Posting About My Car Accident on Social Media?
It is in your best interest to resist the urge to share accident information on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any other social media platforms for the following reasons:
- Contradictory information: If you post something that contradicts what you told the insurance company or opposing counsel, this can jeopardize the outcome of your case. For example, if you said that the other motorist caused the accident by running through a red light, but you post something about how you got into the accident on your way home from a party, this may hurt your case.
- Sharing too much information: If you make comments on social media about how badly you feel about the fact that the other motorist was injured in the accident, this may be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
- Negative comments about your driving: The comments that people make on your posts or page can also be problematic. For example, if you post something about the accident and a friend jokes about your poor driving skills, this comment can be taken out of context and suggest that you caused the accident.
- Evidence of your activities: If you claim you suffered a serious injury but posted pictures of you enjoying an outdoor activity, it can be argued that your injuries are not severe.
Tips for Posting on Social Media After a Car Accident
In many cases, it is best if you avoid social media altogether. However, if you cannot stay off social media, keep your posts to a minimum. Do not make any comments about the accident, your injuries, driving skills, or anything having to do with the accident.
It is also recommended that you do not accept any requests on social media from people that you do not know. The insurance company or opposing counsel may try to get access to your social media platforms to comb through your pages and try to find a picture or a comment that they can use against you.
Once you have reached a settlement agreement, you can return to your regular activity on social media. Your lawyer can advise you on your social media activity following a car accident.
Monmouth County Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams Can Help You With Your Claim
If you were injured in a collision, contact an experienced Monmouth County car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams to discuss your options. We can advise you on your social media activity while going through the legal process. Call us today at 732-351-2800 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With offices conveniently located in Tinton Falls and New Brunswick, New Jersey we serve clients in Monmouth and Middlesex County and throughout the state.