Why You Should Avoid Social Media During Your Personal Injury Case

In today’s world, social media is second nature. Whether it’s sharing updates about your life, checking in with friends, or posting photos from your latest adventure, platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have become part of our daily routine. However, if you are pursuing a personal injury claim, using social media can be more harmful than you realize.

At Phillips & Associates, we strongly advise all our clients to limit or even pause their social media activity until their case is fully resolved. Here’s why:

Your Posts Can Be Misinterpreted

Insurance companies and defense attorneys routinely monitor claimants’ social media accounts for evidence that could diminish the value of your case. A seemingly harmless post—such as a photo at a family gathering or a comment about feeling “better”—can be taken out of context. These posts can be used to argue that your injuries are not as serious as you claim or that you are not as limited as you have reported to your medical providers.

Privacy Settings Are Not Foolproof

Many people believe that adjusting their privacy settings will protect them. Unfortunately, even “private” posts can be accessed through other means. Friends may share your content, or defense counsel may obtain your posts through formal discovery. Once a post is made, it is very difficult to fully control who ultimately sees it.

Social Media Can Undermine Credibility

Your credibility is one of the most important elements of your case. The defense will look for any opportunity to portray you as inconsistent or untrustworthy. For example, if you claim that you have difficulty walking but post a picture of yourself attending a wedding or outdoor event, even if you were resting most of the day, this could be used to cast doubt on your honesty.

Surveillance and Social Media Go Hand-in-Hand

Insurance companies often hire private investigators to conduct surveillance on personal injury claimants. Social media can provide them with a roadmap of where and when to watch you. A location check-in or tagged photo can lead directly to targeted surveillance, which could result in video footage that the defense may use against you in court.

What You Should Do Instead

• Limit or pause your social media activity until your case is concluded.

• Do not post about your accident, injuries, medical treatment, or legal case under any circumstances.

• Ask family and friends not to post about you or tag you in any posts.

• If you have already posted something, inform your attorney so they can address it proactively.

Protect Your Case, Protect Your Recovery

Your personal injury case is about ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Avoiding social media is a simple but critical way to protect your case from unnecessary risk. At Phillips & Associates, we help guide our clients through the legal process and advise on every step to safeguard their claim.

If you have questions about your case or how social media may affect it, contact us today for a free consultation at (818) 348-9515.