For many people, stepping away from social media altogether feels unrealistic. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are central to how we connect with friends, share updates, and stay informed. But if you have a personal injury case pending, using social media the wrong way can create serious risks. The good news is that with caution and discipline, it is possible to stay connected without jeopardizing your claim.
Thank you to our friends at Hayhurst Law PLLC for providing the following discussion about the right and wrong ways to use social media while a personal injury case is pending.
Why Using Social Media Is Risky During A Case
Insurance companies and defense attorneys actively monitor social media accounts for evidence. They are looking for posts, photos, or comments that can be taken out of context and used to question your credibility. Even an innocent post can be twisted into something damaging. That is why limiting your presence is critical until your case is resolved.
What Not To Do
Certain online activities are especially harmful to your case. Here are things you should avoid:
- Do not post about your accident, injuries, or recovery process. Even vague statements can be misinterpreted.
- Do not share photos or videos that suggest physical activity. Something as small as lifting groceries or attending a child’s sports game can be used against you.
- Do not check in at locations that could suggest mobility, such as gyms, trails, or events.
- Do not comment on news stories or posts about your case. These can be viewed as admissions.
Safer Ways To Use Social Media
If you feel you cannot stop using social media completely, you can still participate carefully. Focus on neutral activities that do not reveal anything about your health or lifestyle. For example:
- Share uplifting quotes, recipes, or news articles unrelated to your case.
- React to friends’ posts with likes or simple comments that cannot be tied back to your claim.
- Limit photo sharing to non-personal content, such as nature images, pets, or artwork.
- Avoid writing about your daily activities, especially those involving physical movement.
Strengthening Your Privacy
In addition to limiting your posts, adjust your privacy settings to make your accounts as secure as possible. Restrict visibility to close friends only, turn off tagging options, and do not accept new friend requests during the case. Even with these safeguards, remember that nothing online is ever truly private, so restraint is still your best defense.
Why Discipline Matters
Think of social media as a stage where every post can be replayed in front of a jury. Even if you mean no harm, your words and images can be interpreted differently by people who do not know your full story. By being intentional about what you share, you help preserve your credibility and protect the ability of your personal injury lawyer to argue effectively on your behalf.
Smart Sharing Habits That Safeguard Your Case
You do not have to disappear from social media while your case is pending, but you do have to use it wisely. Keep your posts neutral, avoid sharing personal details, and remember that silence is often the best strategy. By exercising discipline, you reduce the risk of damaging your claim and keep the focus on the facts that truly matter in your case.
