Sharing a glimpse of our lives on social media feels like second nature. However, if you're involved in a personal injury case, think twice before clicking 'post'. Your online activity could have unexpected consequences on your case.

Discovery and Court Orders

 

Even private or deactivated accounts aren't immune to scrutiny. During legal proceedings, opposing counsel can request discovery of your social media data. Courts can issue orders to access what you thought was hidden. It's crucial to think before you post.

Be Cautious With Connections

 

Accepting new friend requests or followers while in litigation might seem harmless, but it’s best to wait. New connections could potentially gather information to use against your case. Proceed with caution and consider reviewing your current connections.

The Impact of Your Posts

 

Even a seemingly innocent post about your day could be leveraged as evidence. Pictures from a vacation or updates about physical activities might be interpreted as contradicting your injury claims. Always consider how others might perceive your posts.

Private Versus Public Profiles

 

While setting your profiles to private is a good start, nothing guarantees complete privacy online. Avoid deleting accounts or posts, as it could appear as though you're hiding something (potentially resulting in legal penalties).

Limit or Avoid Social Media Use

 

It might be best to limit or avoid using social media altogether during your case. Consult with your attorney before posting about anything related to your condition, activities, or claims. This includes work or business-related posts.

If you're involved in a personal injury case, don't take chances—consult with an attorney before making any decisions about social media use.