It almost seems like every time we turn around, there’s a new social media platform creeping into mainstream popularity — or should we say cultural obsession? Such sites as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are a wonderful way to stay connected with friends, family, and even strangers around the world and close to home. They make every man a poet, a DJ, an amateur photographer, and a journalist.
But that’s not all they can do:
Did you know that your social media posting habits may negatively affect the outcome of your personal injury claim?
Remember that anything posted on any social media outlet can be made public at any time. Even just one ill-timed, hasty Facebook status could be used against a personal injury plaintiff in court. So, before you tweet this, or blog about that, consider these guidelines for social media use during personal injury litigation in northern Virginia.
1. Avoid discussion of your personal injury case online.
Don’t do it. That’s really all there is to it. Meetings with your Parrish Law Firm personal injury attorney; doctor’s appointments; any interactions with your insurance company: If family members or your friends are interested, and concerned, discuss the matter with them offline.
2. Don’t post photos, or provide updates regarding your injuries.
If you heed the first point, this goes without saying. While you might think that you’re just keeping those people who care about you in the loop, a defense attorney, or a jury could easily read more into a positive or uplifting, “My condition is improving!” status update than what’s there. The severity of your claim may be diminished, and your potential settlement affected. Just don’t do it.
3. Remind your family: These rules are theirs, too.
We’d live in a perfect world if we were ever only responsible for the things we said, and none of the things anyone else said. Unfortunately, it’s not a perfect world.
You can be held responsible not only for the things you post on social media regarding your personal injury claim, but also those things that your friends or family members may post as well. Forward this article to your loved ones, and ask them to please not tag you in any posts, snaps, or tweets that may negatively affect your case.
Don’t let social media get in the way of the personal injury award you deserve.
Oh, and just one more thing:
When you’re involved in personal injury litigation in northern Virginia, and even when you’re not, it’s a good idea to keep your social media accounts set to private access. Otherwise, friends and foe alike are able to easily explore everything you publish online.
Think Internet safety first, and then call the Parrish Law Firm, PLLC.
The Parrish Law Firm, PLLC Personal Injury Attorney works with Northern Virginia citizens who have suffered from a health care provider’s negligence and are looking for fair compensation for their injuries. Contact us today for a free case consultation, or call us at 703-906-4229.
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A representative of the Parrish Law Firm, PLLC researched and wrote this article with Mr. Parrish’s consent. If you have any questions regarding the legal implications of what you have just read, please send us your question so we can have our attorney review it.
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