Tips for Using Social Media During Your Personal Injury Case

by

Most people use social media platforms to connect with friends and share information about their lives. Therefore, it makes sense you may want to share information about an accident you just had in New Jersey. But when you’re pursuing a personal injury claim, that’s not a good idea. Remember, according to New Jersey court rules, social media posts are non-privileged records, meaning an opposing attorney can use them against you. If you have to use your social media platforms, here are tips that can help.

Take a Break From Social Media

It’s best to avoid social media when your case is going on. It’s the easiest way to avoid saying or posting anything that could compromise your case. Take this time to recover. Invite a friend for dinner or go out for coffee. Get a journal and pen your thoughts instead of posting them on Facebook and Twitter. And how about social media influencers? If your work relates to social media, keep posting as usual but nothing about the accident, your injuries, or the case.

Don’t Post Anything Related to an Accident

Understandably, most people are urged to inform friends about a major event that has just happened in their lives. You want people to know you just went through a difficult period and came out alive. But that’s a bad idea. For instance, you may post a status saying you were in an accident but are fine and ready to go home. While that may seem harmless, it’s a gold mine for the insurance adjuster. You have admitted you’re fine, so your injuries aren’t severe. This can significantly reduce your compensation.

Talk to Your Personal Injury Attorney Before Posting Anything

Talk to your attorney when you doubt what to and should not post. Social media use is almost necessary for some people, particularly those with many followers. Find a personal attorney from the best NJ injury law firm and consult them on your social media use. They can guide you on what you can and can’t post during this period.

Adjust Your Privacy Settings

Although nothing you share on social media is ever private, you can take steps by adjusting your privacy settings. For instance, select which friends can see your future posts. Only your close circle should see anything you post to reduce the risk of your information landing in the wrong hands.

Don’t Post Photos or Videos While Doing Physical Activities

If you’re currently involved in a personal injury case, posting yourself doing physical activities is not a good idea. For instance, if you were in a car accident, then a week later, you post a video doing intense physical exercises, no one would believe you were severely injured. Keep that information off social media. Such posts indicate you’re healthy or that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim them to be.  

Advice Family Members Not to Post Anything

You may not be into social media so much, but a loved one is. On such occasions, tell loved ones to avoid posting anything that could compromise your case. Also, if you reach a confidential settlement, remind family members to adhere to the agreement so you aren’t accused of violating the settlement.

Don’t Post Your Injuries Online

Normally, you’d want to update friends and loved ones about your injuries and treatment. Don’t do this because the information you post can be taken out of context and compromise your settlement. Wait for the case to be settled first.

A careless update can significantly compromise your case. Don’t allow social media to be a stumbling block in your personal injury case. Use social media responsibly until the case is settled.

Latest posts by Akash Tiwari (see all)

Leave a Comment