Today our world is connected through social media 24/7. Some people post everything about their lives on social media and eagerly consume the constant updates of family and friends. Many also use social media as a tool to help further their careers. We reach out to members of our network for ideas, suggestions and job opportunities. Social networking has become a central part of our lives both at work and at home.
Networking through social media is a wonderful tool that helps us in our professional careers. It also gives us the opportunity to connect with friends and family even though we do not see them every day. If you have been involved in an accident and have a personal injury claim pending; however, social networking can harm your case.
Social Networking Is NOT Private
Unfortunately, what you post on social networking websites is not private. Even with your settings at the highest security level, information has a way of going beyond your “family and friends” list. Before social networking websites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram, insurance companies and defense attorneys would hire private investigators to gather evidence about the plaintiff’s claims. This usually involved researching public records, interviewing potential witnesses and surveillance of the plaintiff.
Today, defense attorneys and insurance companies search a plaintiff’s online presence to gather information they can use to challenge the plaintiff’s claims. Information on your social networking accounts can be used as evidence and, in some cases, your information may be accessible to the defendant through a subpoena. By continuously updating your “status,” you are giving the defense team a daily log of your activities. The defense team will look for the slightest inconsistency between the way you act and the claims you are making. Even the slightest inconsistency can have a negative impact on your personal injury claim.
Avoid Social Networking During Your Personal Injury Case
The safest option is to avoid social networking during your personal injury case. If you cannot give up social networking, I advise that you refrain from discussing your injuries or the accident, and that you not post pictures of your activities. Limit your posts to information about your family or friends and avoid giving status updates about your health and recovery. Be suspicious of new friend requests — defense teams know how to fish for information including setting up fake profiles.
Contact an Experienced Long Beach Personal Injury Attorney for More Information
My law practice exclusively represents personal injury victims and does so with a deep understanding of their suffering and an absolute commitment to their recovery. I take your injuries personally, and that is why I directly handle all aspects of every case to ensure that you receive maximum compensation.
Call the Law Office of Michael D. Waks at 888-394-1174 or use the convenient online contact form to schedule a free consultation. You are under no obligation and you will never pay any money unless you recover damages for your injuries. I offer bilingual services as part of my comprehensive approach to legal representation and I am available 24/7 to talk to you about your case.
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