Social media can be an excellent place to blow off steam after an accident, but sites like Facebook are also a double-edged sword for victims. Insurance companies trawl these sites, looking for evidence they can use to lower the victim’s compensation.
Below, an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer explains the impact of social media on personal injury cases in Indiana.
Why Is Social Media Dangerous for Accident Victims in Indianapolis?
Accident victims often need someone to talk to, so they turn to sharing social media posts with friends and family online. However, doing so can be a big mistake and may spell disaster for a personal injury claim.
Insurance adjusters know how victims flock to social media after a car accident (or any other type of accident, for that matter). They comb through sites like Facebook and Reddit to look for any evidence that might help them lower the victim’s settlement amount.
This can be disastrous for Indianapolis, IN, accident victims who desperately need money for medical bills and to replace their lost wages.
What to Avoid When Using Social Media After an Indianapolis, IN, Accident
Victims who wish to post on social media must tread carefully. Ideally, they should never mention the accident at all. This will prevent insurance companies from gaining ammunition to use against them.
On social media, Indianapolis, IN, victims should never:
- Say they’re sorry for the accident. Some victims think they’re doing a good thing by contacting the other driver to apologize, but doing so can come back to bite them. The driver and their insurance company can take it as an admission of guilt.
- Post angry rants. It’s true that (almost) anything goes on social media, but after an accident, victims should stay civil and never curse or rant at the other driver.
- Post pictures of the accident scene. A clever insurance adjuster may be able to find ways to use those pictures against the victim.
- Post stories that suggest they’re not as hurt as they say they are. If an accident victim says they’ve hurt their back too badly to move but are spotted at a concert or party demonstrating normal health, it can be game over.
Stewart & Stewart Attorneys Fights Hard for Accident Victims
The impact of social media on personal injury cases can be disastrous if victims say or do the wrong thing. Stewart & Stewart Attorneys can guide clients through the insurance claims process and advise them on proper social media conduct following an accident. The firm’s personal injury lawyers serve Indianapolis, IN, and nearby cities.
For a free consultation, victims should call (800) 333-3529.