Why You Should Be Careful on Social Media After an Accident
After an accident, it’s natural to want to update friends and family about your condition. Maybe you want to share how you’re feeling or vent about the situation. But here’s the harsh reality — everything you post can be used against you.
Insurance companies and defense lawyers actively monitor social media to find anything that might reduce or deny your claim. Even an innocent post, like a weekend getaway or a picture with friends, could give them ammunition to question the severity of your injuries.
How Insurance Companies Use Social Media Against You
Insurance adjusters don’t just rely on medical reports — they investigate your entire online presence. They will:
Search for your name on all social media platforms
Browse old posts and photos
Take screenshots of anything that could weaken your claim
Even if your profile is private, friends or followers might unintentionally expose your activities.
Real-Life Example:
A client once had over 10,000 tweets in a span of two years. During the legal process, the insurance company analyzed every single tweet, looking for contradictions. They used her own words against her, twisting harmless comments to claim she wasn’t as injured as she said.
What You Should Never Post During a Personal Injury Case
Physical Activities
Even if you’re in pain, posting about jogging, lifting groceries, or playing with your kids can undermine your claim. The insurance company might argue, “If you can do this, you must not be that hurt.”
Travel & Social Events
A simple photo at a wedding or a night out could be taken out of context. They might suggest that if you’re attending social events, your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim.
Comments About Your Case
Never discuss your accident, injuries, or settlement negotiations online. Even private messages can be screenshotted and used as evidence.