How Can Social Media Posts in a Personal Injury Case Affect Your Claim? 3 Privacy Tips You Must Know

An estimated 72.3 percent of Americans regularly use social media, underscoring the significant impact social media posts in a personal injury case can have on legal outcomes.

Social media platforms have dramatically transformed interactions, from tweeting about your favorite local eatery to posting Instagram photos of your pets. In fact, Facebook alone boasted around 2.85 billion global users as of 2021.

Many films and TV shows have portrayed the potential pitfalls associated with social media usage. While users typically recognize the risks posed to employment or personal relationships, fewer understand that social media posts in a personal injury case can significantly affect outcomes.

Indeed, attorneys and insurance adjusters routinely examine social media content to uncover evidence that might contradict a claimant's statements. If you’re involved in a personal injury case, you certainly want to avoid providing the opposing side with ammunition to undermine or deny your claim.

When you post content online, there's limited protection against it being used in ways harmful to your interests. Essentially, anything you share publicly can become evidence in your case.

An Example of Social Media Posts in a Personal Injury Case

Consider the following scenario:

Evan, a retail store employee, injures his leg after a fall while stocking shelves. He claims his injury prevents him from working.

However, shortly after his injury, Evan shares a photo on Instagram of himself skateboarding at Venice Beach. Attorneys or insurance representatives could legally use such posts as photographic evidence that Evan exaggerated the severity of his injury.

3 Essential Tips to Maintain Privacy on Social Media During a Personal Injury Case

Protecting your privacy and safeguarding your claim is crucial. Follow these three essential tips:

1. Manage Privacy Settings

Every social media platform offers varying degrees of privacy settings. Regularly review and adjust your preferences to limit what others can view. Doing so helps minimize the risk of unintended audiences, including those who might seek evidence against you.

2. Be Selective with Friend Requests

If your accounts are private, be cautious with new friend or follow requests, especially from unknown individuals. While accepting friend requests can feel courteous or welcoming, some users might intend to gather damaging information or photographs to challenge your claim.

3. Consider a Social Media Detox

If adjusting settings feels overwhelming or you’d rather not risk it, temporarily stepping away from social media might be beneficial. A social media detox not only secures your privacy but may also help clear your mind during recovery from a personal injury.

How Our Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help

Whether or not social media posts pose a risk to your claim, the experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorneys at Tulekyan Law are ready to help you.

We prioritize transparency and clarity in every case, ensuring your claim progresses effectively toward fair compensation and justice.

Common personal injury claims in California we handle include:

• Pedestrian accidents
• Burn injuries
• Car accidents (including trucks and motorcycles)
• Construction accidents
• Dog attacks
• Slip and fall accidents

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless we secure compensation for you. Our fee structure is a predetermined percentage of your recovered settlement or court award.

If you or someone you love recently sustained injuries, contact Tulekyan Law today to schedule a free consultation.