Social media moves fast, but a legal case moves on rules and proof. One post, one comment, or even one photo can change how a story looks on paper. That is why it helps to think ahead before we share anything online.
In the video, Atty. Matthew McLain of Turner-Monahan PLLC explains that social media can either support your claim or create issues if it gives the wrong impression after a crash.
For personalized advice, please contact Attorney Tyler Monahan, partner at Turner-Monahan, PLLC, to discuss your case.
How can social media hurt or help our case?
Social media can be a gold mine for your case, or it can seriously damage it. In some instances, it would be good for your case, but it would perhaps show something negative about the other driver. It can show what they were doing earlier, before the accident, such as maybe drinking alcohol at a restaurant before they were involved in the accident with you.
Conversely, if you host a bunch of things on social media that would appear to show you as not having been impacted by the crash, the insurance company will definitely try to use that against you. They may try to show that your claim is not worth that much money.
Private Does Not Always Mean Protected In A Lawsuit
A lot of people think private accounts are off limits, but that is not always how it works in a case. If something is relevant, the other side can ask for it in discovery, and courts often allow access to posts that relate to the injuries, the timeline, or anything that conflicts with the claim.
Even things like comments, tags, stories, and photos that other people post about you can come into play, especially if they affect how the crash and the recovery look. Insurance companies and investigators also regularly look at social media during claims investigations, so it helps to assume your public and semi-public activity may be seen.
Whether it’s a car accident, defective product, or serious injury, Matthew T. McLain brings the skill and compassion you need. Reach out today to discuss your case.
What People Forget About Social Media In Crash Cases
Even if we never post about the accident, social media can still create problems. A quick photo at a wedding, a short clip at a café, or even a smiling selfie can get twisted into “they are fine.” It does not mean we did anything wrong. It just means the other side may try to use normal life moments to downplay pain, stress, or recovery.
Comments, Tags, And Group Chats Can Still Become Evidence
It is not only what we post. It is what other people post about us. A friend tagging us at a gym, a cousin writing “glad you are back to normal,” or someone posting old pictures as a memory can create confusion in the timeline.
Even private messages can become part of a case if they are requested later. That is why it helps to tell close friends and family, politely, to avoid posting about us or tagging us while the claim is active.
Do Not Delete Or Hide Posts Once A Claim Is On The Table
When a crash claim is possible, it is important to treat social media like evidence. Deleting posts, deleting photos, or deactivating an account can create a new problem in the case called spoliation, which is basically destroying potential evidence.
Courts can punish that in serious ways, and it can even hurt the whole case, not just the post that got deleted. The safer move is to preserve what exists and talk with your attorney before making any changes to accounts, settings, or content.
For thoughtful, trial-tested representation from someone who truly understands what injury victims face, contact Attorney Matthew T. McLain at Turner-Monahan, PLLC.
What To Look For When Choosing An Attorney For A Crash Case
It helps to pick an attorney who has real experience with car crash claims, not someone who only handles them once in a while. Ask how the firm communicates, who you will talk to day to day, and how often you will get updates. It also helps to ask how they handle insurance company pressure and what they need from you to protect the case. A good fit usually feels clear, steady, and easy to work with, especially when life already feels stressful.
Hire An Experienced Fort Worth, Texas, Personal Injury Attorney
If a crash case is ongoing, it helps to treat social media like it can be seen by anyone, because it often can be. The safest move is to stay careful and let the case speak through the evidence, not through posts. For guidance that fits your situation, consult with a personal injury attorney, and make sure you get advice before you make any big decisions.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys, Tyler Monahan or Matthew McLain, to discuss your case and explore your options. Let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.
Check our website for more information about our services. Plus, don’t forget to go through our blog to find out more about your case. There is tons of information on Personal Injury and answers to unique questions like “Choosing the Right Personal Injury Lawyer in Fort Worth”
FAQs Regarding Personal Injury
Personal injury cases are unique, and each situation brings different questions. To save time and provide clarity, here are some topics related to this area of law. For more information, contact our firm, Turner-Monahan, PLLC.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state for legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PLLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
