With social media becoming so engrained in our lives, it is no surprise that those injured on the job might turn to their internet friends and followers to share their experiences. However, it is essential to stay mindful of how posting online can impact other aspects of our lives, including legal matters.
In particular, many employees may not realize that improper social media usage can hurt their workers’ compensation claims.
Your social media is a potential source of evidence
Since social media is part of the public domain, anything posted on sites such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok or Instagram may turn into evidence against you in a court of law. Additionally, an insurance company investigating your claim has the legal authority to use your social media activities against you, the claimant. During this investigation, they may search your social media profiles to see if any information contradicts your claim.
Some ways social media posting can hurt your workers’ compensation case include:
- Videos of you engaging in exercise or physical activities without struggle or apparent pain.
- Evidence of you enjoying life post-accident may question any claims of pain and suffering.
- Status updates about your workplace accident that you might say something self-incriminating.
- Posts speaking negatively about your employer or job might demonstrate you are untrustworthy.
Tips for protecting your workers’ compensation claim
Refrain from posting on social media entirely during your workers’ compensation case. Even if you switch all of your accounts to private, insurance adjusters can use a variety of tactics to access your profiles. Make sure that your friends and family members do not sabotage your case by posting about your claim before it closes. However, do not delete any existing posts, so you do not destroy evidence.
Remain cautious online to protect yourself and your claim.
