If you have been in a recent injury lawsuit, you might think that posting on social media is unrelated to your case. This could not be further from the truth, as a “checked-in” post at a football game or a smiling selfie at the rodeo can derail your settlement process. You could also think that it is just a visual memory of a good time with friends, but an insurance adjuster can interpret that same picture as proof that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
The “active lifestyle” trap
Insurance companies are actively looking for any inconsistency. For instance, if you have been involved in a car accident and your legal claim states that you have debilitating back pain, but then you post a video on Instagram standing for hours at a concert, an adjuster can allege that you are overstating your physical issues. And you might be surprised to know that social media posts can be used as evidence in the Texas legal system.
The risks of checking in
Tagging your location can be risky. Being “checked-in” at a social venue suggests a level of mobility and social engagement that adjusters often use to downplay the mental anguish or loss of enjoyment of life associated with your injury. Even if a friend tags you in a post, it could be used against you during the discovery phase.
Lock your accounts, protect your claim
There is a simple way to avoid trouble: set your accounts to private and stop posting entirely until your case is resolved. Remember that everything you share can be used against you in a legal case. And if you need help, an attorney can be a great ally in your legal claim.