Car accidents can be traumatic, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. Like many people, you may head to social media after a crash seeking support, help, an outlet or distraction. However, as you navigate the legal process, you may be surprised to learn that social media can play a significant role in your case.
How social media can help build a case
Social media can be a powerful tool in car accident investigations. Posts, photos and videos shared online can serve as evidence. Here are some ways it can help:
- Eyewitness accounts: Sometimes, witnesses share their accounts of an accident on social media. These accounts can support your version of events.
- Accident scene photos: People often post photos of accidents they witness, which can provide visual evidence of the accident scene.
- Injury documentation: Posting photos or updates about your injuries can help document the impact of the accident over time.
- Proving liability: Imagine someone rear-ended you at a red light, claiming they had the right of way. A post or photo on their social media showing them texting seconds before the crash could contradict their story and support your claim.
For these reasons, social media can be a helpful tool when it comes to supporting your claims and building a stronger case.
How social media can hurt your case
While social media can be helpful, it can also create legal complications if you’re not careful:
- Contradicting statements: If you post something that contradicts your claims, it can be used against you. For example, saying you’re fine when you’ve claimed severe injuries.
- Activity evidence: Photos or posts showing you doing activities that seem inconsistent with your injuries can weaken your case.
- Public perception: Posts can shape peoples’ perceptions of your situation and liability. Negative comments or unsympathetic posts can impact how others view your case.
Because of the wealth of information social media can provide, it makes sense that police, insurance companies and attorneys often scrutinize social media activity related to crashes and injuries. Knowing what they may find can help you make smart decisions about what you say, share and do online.