Following a car accident, it might be tempting to turn to social media to get sympathy for your injuries. However, one wrong post could be damaging to your insurance claim. If you were involved in a car accident, it is important that you understand how social media could impact your case.  

What Is So Bad About Posting to Social Networking Sites? 

A picture showing your injuries or a post describing an accident might seem harmless, but it could actually harm your auto accident claim. In the past, insurance investigators relied on witness testimony, medical bills, and other physical evidence to prove or disprove a claim. In today's technology driven world, investigators rely on social networking sites to build a case against a claim. 

When you post pictures or discuss your accident and injuries online, the investigator will compare what is shared with your statement regarding the accident. If there is even one discrepancy, the insurance company could use the difference to deny or reduce your claim.  

Even your past social media history can be used against you. If you have old posts discussing injuries from another accident, the insurance investigator can use the post to delve into your medical history. Even though your current injuries are not related to your past, the insurance company could argue that they are. It could be difficult to prove otherwise.  

What Can You Do? 

One of the most important steps you can take is to not post about the accident or the injuries. If friends and relatives want to know more, they can visit you. It is important to note that the investigator might speak to them also, so keep the information you share with them limited.  

You also need to change your social networking accounts to private. Only friends and family should be able to view your profile and posts. If you receive any friend requests from someone you do not know, do not accept them. There is a possibility that the insurance investigator is attempting to gain access to your accounts.  

Some people take the action of deleting their accounts completely. If you do, you can likely recover your account once the case is settled.  

Your car accident lawyer can advise you of other ways to protect yourself and your claim. If you are concerned about making the wrong move online, talk to your lawyer before posting so you can avoid any missteps. For more information, contact companies like Zavodnick, Perlmutter & Boccia LLC.