Social media keeps us connected, but it also supplies insurers with a highlight reel they can twist against you. A single smiling photo can be framed as proof you’re “fine,” even if you left the event early or paid for it with pain later. You don’t need to vanish from the internet; you do need a plan that protects your claim without isolating you from your community.
We’d like to thank our friends from The Law Office of Jeffrey Weiskopf for the following discussion about social media pitfalls that can undermine an injury claim.
Tighten Privacy Settings, Then Post Less
Private isn’t truly private; screenshots spread fast, and platforms can be discoverable in litigation. Assume an adjuster or defense lawyer will see anything you share. Reduce frequency, review follower lists, and pause accepting new requests from people you don’t recognize.
Rethink The “Highlight Reel”
Travel check-ins, gym selfies, yard-work videos, and hobby clips can be taken out of context. If you post, add honest context (“posed photo,” “watched from the sideline,” “left early”). Better yet, save those updates for after your case resolves.
Control Tags And Comments
Ask friends and family not to tag you or reference your recovery publicly. Turn on approval for tagged photos. Monitor group posts where you might appear in the background. A well-meaning joke about your “miracle recovery” becomes fodder in the wrong hands.
Never Discuss The Case
Avoid posting about fault, offers, medical details, or frustrations with the process. Don’t argue online with the other side. Keep updates private and reserve case specifics for conversations with your car accident lawyer and care team.
Do Not Delete Relevant Content After An Incident
Deleting posts can be portrayed as destroying evidence. If old content concerns you, talk to your attorney about lawful preservation and potential restrictions going forward.
Audit Other Platforms
Fitness apps, marketplace listings, dating profiles, and community forums leave digital breadcrumbs. Review what’s public and lock down what you can while the claim is active.
Remember That Quiet Accounts Matter Too
Messaging apps and private groups feel safer, but screenshots travel. If you need support, choose calls or in-person conversations. Ask a trusted friend to be your “social media spotter” who reminds you to pause before sharing.
Think About Audiences
Adjusters and defense teams look for posts that appear to contradict medical records, like heavy lifting, endurance activities, or travel without context. If you must share, favor neutral content that can’t be misconstrued (pet photos, recipes, books). Skip achievement language (“crushed my workout”) that clashes with your documented limitations.
Consider A Posting Moratorium Tied To Milestones
For example, pause nonessential posts until you’ve completed an initial course of therapy or finished a specialist evaluation. That narrow window can drastically reduce the risk of misunderstanding without cutting you off from your network for months.
Remember Your “Why”
You’re protecting your health, your credibility, and your family’s financial stability. Social media will still be there when your case ends. For now, choose recovery over reactions, and give your future self the clean record they deserve.
