These days, social media have become an important part of people’s everyday lives. They can affect many aspects of lives including personal injury claims. A Des Moines personal injury law firm understands the need to navigate the complexities of such platforms in personal injury cases.
For a lot of people, social media platforms are a virtual diary, letting them share their experiences, thoughts, and whereabouts. However, in personal injury cases, such platforms can compromise details. Insurers and defense lawyers usually scour social media for information they can use against claimants. They may twist or misinterpret even harmless photos or posts to diminish the seriousness of your injuries, affecting your final settlement.
Why Avoid Social Media While Your Case is Ongoing
Staying away from social media may make sense while your personal injury case is active because of the following reasons:
- Privacy is not guaranteed. A lot of people think that adjusting their social media privacy settings will protect their private details from prying eyes. But keep in mind that when you post something online, it can possibly be accessed, used, or shared by other parties. Insurers can hire investigators to dig into your social media profiles and find evidence that might weaken your personal injury claim.
- Inconsistencies can be exploited. What you may share on social media may not be consistent with what you present in your claim. A simple post about you being in an event or taking part in physical activities may raise questions regarding the extent of your injuries. Defense lawyers can exploit these inconsistencies to reduce your credibility. Thus, you should exercise causation whenever you share personal information online.
What a Personal Injury Attorney Approaches Social Media When Handling Your Case
Your personal injury attorney understands the possible negative effects of social media on your claim. That is why they may address such challenges with a proactive approach. They may advise you to be mindful of your online activity during your case’s duration. It may be not to discuss any details related to your case such as your injuries and the case itself on social media platforms.
Before you engage with social media, consult with your lawyer first. Even harmless posts can be used against you by the other party in court. Seeking legal assistance makes sure that you know the possible implications of your social media presence. Also, this helps you make smart decisions to protect your claims and rights.
How to Preserve Evidence and Protect Your Injury Claim
To have a successful personal injury claim, you must understand the legal procedures, including how to preserve evidence. Your lawyer can educate you on the significance of evidence preservation. This includes the need to delete any social media posts because they can be evidence that the other party can use to build a case against you.
As social media is playing an expanding role in people’s lives, it has become an important source of legal evidence. Digital evidence is important in personal injury cases and your attorney can make sure all related information, including your posts on social media, are examined and presented meticulously to bolster your claim.
Moreover, the burden of proof in personal injury cases lies with you as the claimant. This emphasizes the need to present a credible and consistent narrative. Your attorney will work with you to build a strong case, considering the possible effects of social media on your overall narrative. Addressing possible challenges head-on allows your attorney to secure reasonable compensation for you.
If you are pursuing an injury claim, trust a skilled attorney to give expert guidance as you navigate the challenges that social media poses. Your attorney will protect your rights and secure the monetary compensation you deserve.
