What to Know about Social Media and Personal Injury Claims?

Dawn Pinnisi

May 7, 2024

After you’ve sustained an injury due to someone else’s negligence, you can seek compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, the insurer is likely to put up an intense fight to avoid paying you the injury-related compensation you deserve. Their fight-back strategy may lead them to your social media accounts, searching for anything to dispute your compensation claim for injury-related losses.

Sudden accidents and serious injuries are traumatic and major events in our lives. It is natural to want to share such major occurrences with your friends and family online to keep them informed of your situation. While it may be tempting to share the details of your accidents or injury on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, it is recommended to pause before doing so.

First, always consult a trusted Paramus, NJ, personal injury attorney. They can advise on what to do or not to do on social media while your personal injury claim is pending.

Can Social Media Ever Help a Personal Injury Claim?

While it may be tempting to document every aspect of your life on social media, it is important to exercise caution when pursuing a personal injury claim. Insurance companies and defense attorneys are increasingly using social media as a tool to gather evidence and undermine the credibility of claimants.

This does not mean that social media is always negative for personal injury victims. Social media platforms have become an invaluable resource for seeking recommendations and connecting with professionals in various fields, and personal injury law is no exception. Utilizing social media can be a powerful tool when it comes to finding a skilled and reputable personal injury attorney.

In addition to seeking recommendations, social media platforms allow you to learn more about attorneys and their areas of experience. Many lawyers and law firms have professional profiles on platforms such as LinkedIn, where they showcase their background, experience, and practice areas. This can give you a glimpse into their qualifications and help you assess whether they might be a good fit for your personal injury claim.

Social media can be a valuable tool when it comes to seeking personal injury attorney recommendations. Remember to exercise caution and do your own research before making any final decisions. Further, avoid discussing anything further regarding why you need a lawyer on social media, as this might affect your claim.

How Social Media Posts Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Claim?

Many people believe that certain social media posts are harmless when insurance investigators might find ways to twist the information around against the injury claim.

Venting About the Accident on Social Media

It is expected for a personal injury victim to feel frustrated, stressed, or overwhelmed after a car accident. As a result, you may express your frustration to your online community.

Expressing your accident-related sentiments on social media is never advised since what you feel now could create a false narrative. If you make a hyperbolic claim about the accident, the insurance company might use these exaggerated statements to claim you’re dishonest and can’t be trusted. If you are exaggerating what happened on social media, it is possible you are exaggerating your injuries to the insurance company. Whether true or not, it can cause problems with your claim.

Creating New Posts While Your Lawsuit Is Active

Social media is often accessible to the public, which makes it possible for an insurance adjuster to understand what’s happening in your life. Even if you believe you have strong privacy settings, investigators might access your profiles through mutual connections or other means. Never assume that private means private.

Suppose an insurance adjuster comes across a picture of you at a family picnic a week after a car accident, playing with your children outside in a cheerful mood. Although your family pictures do not dispute your injury, an insurance adjuster may take it out of context to claim you are not in pain and have no limitations from your injuries.

Even posts that are unrelated to your accident can cause obstacles with the insurance claim process, so it is best to take a social media hiatus during your case.

Sending Private Messages About Your Case

In addition to making public posts, DMs or private messages could jeopardize your case. Anything you share online, including private messages, isn’t 100% secure. Courts have previously ordered plaintiffs to hand over their social media usernames and passwords to enhance investigations.

What Kind of Things Will an Insurance Company Look Out for on Social Media?

It’s important to be aware of what kind of things insurance companies will be looking out for on social media.

Photos

Photos of you on vacation, working, or seemingly enjoying life as usual can potentially impact your personal injury claim. Insurance companies may argue that if you are able to undertake these activities, it means that your injuries are not as severe as you claim them to be. Similarly, any statements that go against the narrative of the accident you gave to insurers might be used against you to undermine your credibility.

Check-ins

Another thing insurance companies will scrutinize is your social media check-ins to different restaurants or events. They may argue that these check-ins demonstrate that your injuries do not restrict your life as much as you’ve claimed. It’s important to be mindful of what you share on social media during this time.

Remember, your social media presence can have a significant impact on your personal injury claim. Stay cautious, be mindful of what you post, and seek the assistance of a knowledgeable New Jersey injury attorney for guidance throughout the process.

Recommendations on What to Do While You Are in an Injury Lawsuit

Being involved in a lawsuit can be overwhelming and stressful. It’s essential to stay focused and take certain steps to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Here are some recommendations to consider while you are in a lawsuit:

Follow the guidance of your attorney: Your attorney is your advocate. Listen to their advice and follow their guidance throughout the process. They have the knowledge and experience to navigate insurance claims and will work in your best interest.
Document everything: Keep a record of all communications, including emails, phone calls, and written correspondence related to your lawsuit. Document any expenses or losses incurred as a result of the incident. This documentation can provide valuable evidence to support your claim.
Avoid discussing your case on social media: Once again, we cannot repeat it enough: social media platforms are not the place to vent frustrations or discuss details of your lawsuit. Anything you post online can potentially be used against you. It’s important to exercise caution and refrain from posting anything that may compromise your case.

Consulting with an experienced injury attorney is critical to understanding your rights and options. When in doubt, always seek professional legal advice to ensure you are making informed decisions throughout the litigation process.

Get in Touch With an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney for Legal Assistance

Suppose you posted that you went bowling to calm your mind after a nasty car accident. In that case, the at-fault party insurance may use the Facebook post to dispute the extent of your injury and resulting claim.

Always seek representation from an experienced attorney from Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., who’ll advise on the best way to protect your rights regarding your social media and personal injury claims.

Dawn M. Pinnisi

Dawn M. Pinnisi is a distinguished attorney with a track record of excellence in advocating for victims of injury and negligence. Dawn is a Founding Partner of the Firm, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and has been awarded by the National Trial Lawyers.

University: J.D. Brooklyn Law School

Bar Number: 33771999

Locations: New Jersey and New York.

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partners, Varcadipane & Pinnisi, who have more than 40 years of combined legal experience as personal injury attorneys.

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Cases We Handle

What to Know about Social Media and Personal Injury Claims?

Can Social Media Ever Help a Personal Injury Claim?

How Social Media Posts Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Claim?

Venting About the Accident on Social Media

Creating New Posts While Your Lawsuit Is Active

Sending Private Messages About Your Case

What Kind of Things Will an Insurance Company Look Out for on Social Media?

Photos

Check-ins

Recommendations on What to Do While You Are in an Injury Lawsuit

Get in Touch With an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney for Legal Assistance

Dawn M. Pinnisi

Let Us Fight For You

Categories

Request Your Free Consultation

"A terrific firm that helped my family to successfully litigate a complex real estate fraud case. Great communication from the team throughout the entire process. Everyone involved was highly skilled, explained things clearly and appe..."

"Varcadipane & Pinnisi were incredible to work with. Their attention to detail, knowledge, and responsiveness go unmatched. I highly recommend!!! "

"My nearly 8 year long relationship with Varcadipane & Pinnisi as my legal counsel was nothing short of outstanding. Their dedication and hard work shone through every step of the way. Simply put, I was represented by my legal dre..."

"Jeff Varcadipane did an excellent job winning my case, despite the constant hurdles and excess motions of the defense. His knowledge of every part of the law was very impressive. He and Dawn really cared about my case and constantly ..."

"I had a great experience with Varcadipane & Pinnisi, PC law firm and would like to express my gratitude specifically to Ms. Sophia Soraya for her excellent legal assistance. I appreciate their professionalism and highly recommend..."

"Attorney Sophia Soraya and her firm were incredible. We couldn’t have been more impressed with their knowledge, care and attention to detail. Your legal needs are in great hands with Varcadipane & Pinnisi. "

"Varcadipane & Pinnisi PC has been an incredible partner in navigating risk and advising on the commercial structure of multiple businesses, while providing personal counsel for the last 15 years. "

"The entire team at VARCADIPANE & PINNISI were fantastic to work with and achieved way more than expected. I had such a hard time finding and trusting a firm to work with based on the complexity of my case. The team at VARCADIPANE..."

"We are extremely pleased with the exceptional legal services provided by Varcdipane & Pinnisi. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication were evident throughout the entire process. I highly recommend their services to anyo..."

"Choosing this firm to represent my family and I was the best decision I could have made! They walked us through the process and were very professional, accessible and always explained everything in detail. Dawn and her team listened,..."

"I cannot praise Varcadipane & Pinnisi, PC enough for their exceptional legal support, especially Mr. Varcadipane’s instrumental role in safeguarding my business. Before engaging their services, my business was operating wit..."

"Thank you to Dawn who work tirelessly throughout the time that we have the case open. She even helped to find ways to reduce the cost. She is very knowledgeable and easy to reach out to. Very fair and logical by providing whats best ..."

"My name is John and my experience with Varcadipane & Pinnisi was amazing from day one. The firm is very professional and very informative. Not all law firms are honest or easy to work with. With that said , once become a client you..."

"They say the reward is exponentially greater if you receive it when you least expect it. It sounds like a fairy tale happy ending, but it was made possible for my wife and me by the team at Varcadipane & Pinnisi, PC. What started..."

"I would highly recommend Varcadipane & Pinnisi for the dedication to your individual case and your needs. They’re timely in response to your questions, they get you the answers you need, they are honest and reliable. We all n..."

"They are very good lawyers and they are very kind thanks for everything 😊😊 "

"It has truly been an incredible experience working with Ms. Sophia Soraya and the Varcadipane & Pinnisi Law Firm. They have been extremely professional, diligent, and committed. Despite any challenges that appeared along the road..."

"We Hired Varcadipane & Pinnisi for a situation we had back In NJ last year with a moving company that did not do right by us, they were supposed to deliver our household goods from NJ to our new home in FL and instead took all of..."

"Sophia was amazing, as was her team. She was there for me through everything; super supportive and ensured I felt comfortable with every decision made. She never gave up and ultimately made a very challenging life event much easier t..."

"Jeff and his team were so helpful in solving our legal issue. Everyone was thorough and communicated every step of the process to us. We really appreciate everything they did and would highly recommend!! "

"I was very satisfied with Varcadipane & Pinnisi. They were professional and courteous in handling my case., which they handled with speed and brought a very favorable outcome to my case. I would Whole heartily recommend to anyone..."

"Everyone at this law office is very courteous and professional. I was being kept in the loop at every step in the process, and we reached a satisfactory outcome. "

"The law firm lead by Mr. Varcadipane provided service that was first rate. From our first conversation, till the final settlement, this firm provided me a level of comfort and expertise which was second to none. I would surely recomm..."

"Dawn Pinnisi is a caring and responsible attorney who worked assiduously on my behalf. Highly recommend. "

"To be successful in a matter involving a business dispute requires an attorney who not only knows the law but who has spent significant time in the courtroom dealing with complex business litigation. Varcadipane & Pinnisi is that..."

"Varcadipane & Pinnisi were successful in negotiating our claim. Professional and knowledgeable "

"They were outstanding in every way and I couldn’t be more pleased! "

"I would like to start off by telling everyone at the firm how thankful I am for all who were involved in my case. I was always treated professionally, like family, kind, and considerate and with a friendly smile. Moreover, my experie..."

"Words can’t adequately express my gratitude to Dawn for taking on my medical malpractice case. At our first meeting Dawn had compassion for I went through and took the time to listen to everything I had to say. Throughout the e..."

"Dawn Pinnisi was recommended to me from another lawyer. From the moment I spoke with her, I left it all in her hands. I live 2 hours away and I never had to go to her office! She settled my lawsuit so fast and for more that I ever ex..."

"I would like to start off by telling everyone at the firm how thankful I am for all of you who were involved in my case. I was always treated professionally, with a friendly smile and greeting anytime I was at the office. Moreover, m..."

"I have known Jeff Varcadipane for over 7 years, during which time he has advised me on several real estate and civil claims issues. Most recently, he assisted with my complicated real estate transaction in NYC. He was very responsive..."

"The best way to describe Dawn is if you are looking for a person that will go to bat for you, to fight for your cause, that puts in the energy, research, and effort that is required to get you the settlement that you deserve, then lo..."

"Great law firm! Dawn Pinnisi is a great lawyer, very easy to work with, and got me a more than fair settlement on my case. Highly recommend this law firm. "

"When forming my business, it was important that I started with the right structure. Jeff took the time to explain the pros and cons from a legal perspective and I was able to make a confident decision. Varcadipane & Pinnisi got m..."

"The legal process is complicated and at times frustrating but Jeff has managed to translate this process so it is clear to me. He has been patient in walking me through this step by step. Jeff has been timely in providing me with upd..."

"Dawn is the best she won 2 cases for me for over $300,000. The first one was very difficult being that the company had no insurance, but Dawn handled it with such persistence and professionalism that we won. If you want a lawyer who ..."

"I highly endorse this lawyer. Dawn is smart and personable. She is known to be a great litigator and she is extremely knowledgeable about the law as well as being fiercely defensive of her clients. I have attended many court appearan..."

"I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Pinnisi for 14 years. She is one of the most outstanding attorneys with whom I have dealt. Ms. Pinnisi meticulously prepares and researches cases and advocates zealously on behalf of her clients..."

"Dawn Pinnisi is a fantastic attorney with whom I have worked on numerous cases. Dawn is someone I am proud to call a friend. Over the years I have seen how personally invested she becomes in each of her cases, stopping at nothing to ..."

"Dawn really helped me out in a time of need after my accident. I wasn’t sure if I had a case or not but after my consultation, she gave me hope. I felt like I could trust her and she always returned my phone calls after reachin..."

"I highly recommend Dawn Pinnisi for medical malpractice, car accident, and personal injury cases. Not only is she one of the most experienced attorneys in the field she’s an honest, trustworthy, and caring person in the litigat..."

"I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Pinnisi for 14 years. She is one of the most outstanding attorneys with whom I have dealt. Ms. Pinnisi meticulously prepares and researches cases and advocates zealously on behalf of her clients..."

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