After Your Car Accident: Common Social Media Mistakes to Avoid

Approximately 65 percent of American adults share their opinions and lives on social media. If you're among this group, you know how easily sensitive and embarrassing information can inadvertently be shared with millions of people. If you've recently been injured in a car accident, you need to use social media wisely. If you don't, you could wind up sabotaging your case.

Here are a few common social media mistakes car accident victims make that you should be careful to avoid.

If you're considering filing a lawsuit, are in the middle of your lawsuit, or have settled a lawsuit, then you should never share confidential information about the case. This includes any updates about your case, any medical information or anything you've shared with your physician or attorney.

Anything you tell your physical or attorney falls under the umbrella of privilege, and if you share sensitive information with your friends and family on social media, it is no longer protected. This includes anything you post that could be considered an admission of guilt.

If you're like many social media enthusiasts, you cannot wait to get on your phone and computer and share photos of your family vacation or post a funny anecdote about your spouse's birthday party. Unfortunately, even if you post a picture of your standing on the beach or share an amusing story that isn't about you, seemingly innocent information could be detrimental to your case.

When you file a lawsuit after a car accident, you are seeking compensation for several things, including your pain and suffering. If you are in photographs having a good time with your family, or if you write a post about going out to dinner with friends, the other driver's attorney could use this as evidence you aren't as injured or distressed as you claim to be.

Another common mistake vehicle accident victims make is about the progress of their condition. For example, if you suffered a back injury during the accident and then write a post to let friends and family members know you are feeling better, your comment could make it appear you aren't suffering as much as you previously stated.

After the accident, chances are everyone you know will be asking you about your condition. Sharing the ups and downs of recovery is fine, but don't let your friends tell the world how you are doing on social media. Let friends and family know that you are in the middle of a lawsuit and that any updates about your condition should not be shared on social media.

Additionally, if someone snaps a photo when you are at a friend's home or out for a night on the town, make sure the picture stays off social media. It's not uncommon for attorneys to check the social media accounts of the victim's friends and family. A photo of you smiling and having fun could make it appear that your injuries aren't that severe.

Finally, the best way to avoid undermining your case on social media is to avoid posting updates or photos at all. Anything you share with the world could be damaging to your case, so the best way to prevent this from happening is to take a break from social media until your case is settled.

Sharing information about your case or posting photos of you enjoying your life can be detrimental to your personal injury case. Secure your future by following the practices outlined here. If you have additional questions, don't hesitate to contact Wegner & Associates .