There is no denying social media’s prevalence in the modern world. It can seem like nearly everyone has their face buried in a smartphone or tablet these days. Most people engage in some form of social media on web-connected mobile devices. Whether it is Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or online message boards. Social media participation is certainly entertaining. Yet, it also has the potential to backfire in a big way following an accident. Our Albuquerque accident lawyers are here to help every step of the way. If you suffer an injury in any way and suspect another party is even partially responsible, you should refrain from social media use or limit participation on these platforms until you resolve your case.
How to Handle Social Media Following a Personal Injury
If you are the victim of another person’s negligence the last thing you should do is post pictures and information on social media. Though social media is certainly addictive, it is important to exhibit self-control following your accident. If you insist on updating your status or upload a picture on a social media platform, do not reveal anything related to the accident. Even the slightest misstep on social media can jeopardize the merit of your complaint against the other party; even if that party was completely responsible for the accident. The best way to approach social media following your accident is to do nothing. Do not update your status or post pictures. Do not comment on other posts or pictures with information regarding your accident.
Keep a Low Social Media Profile for a While
It could be a mistake to accept new friend requests, especially if they are from strangers. There have been a few instances of opposing counsel or the insurance company to posing as a friendly presence on social media only to befriend a victim, document their social media postings, and use them to sabotage their case. Such behavior might seem nefarious or at the very least unscrupulous, yet it is possible in our modern age.
Do not Underestimate the Insurance Company and Opposing Counsel
Employees of the auto insurance company and law firm representing the offending party really may search the web for your name and address following the accident. If your display name is your real name on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or another social media account, and that account is not completely private, any web sleuth can find your online footprint with ease. In some cases, putting your social media settings on private will only conceal some information. It just makes it slightly more difficult to find you with a web search.
If you have posted any significant picture, status update, or comment on another person’s posts since the accident, the opposing team may try to use it against you as evidence in a court of law. Even something as simple as updating your status with a short message about crashing your car can seem like an admission of guilt.
Let Your Social Media Friends Know About the Situation
Meet with your friends and family to discuss the importance of keeping all information pertaining to your accident completely offline. Even a friend or family member’s social media post that makes a passing reference to the accident or your well-being could possibly hurt your case in court. The insurance company’s web-sleuths may go as far as reviewing the social media postings of your friends and family to pinpoint evidence that makes their argument appear that much more credible.
Our Albuquerque Accident Lawyers are Here to Help After Your Accident
Make sure you have had your injuries tended to and you have contacted the police to document your accident. The next step is to reach out to our Albuquerque accident lawyers. Our team at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys will fiercely advocate on your behalf to maximize your compensation. You can reach us by dialing 844-977-1900. Our typical office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Yet, we will gladly answer your call at any hour, even on the weekends. You can also contact us 24/7 through our website’s LiveChat feature.