We live in a world where posting about our day feels second nature. But if you’re in the middle of a lawsuit, social media can quietly become your biggest enemy. What you share online can be taken out of context and used against you, even innocent posts.
Why it matters
Insurance companies and defense lawyers look at social media as part of their investigation. They’re not just checking your profiles; they may scroll back months or years looking for anything they can twist to weaken your case.
A single photo of you smiling at a birthday party could be used to suggest you’re not in pain. A friend tagging you in a post like “Glad you’re feeling better!” could be presented as evidence that your injuries aren’t serious, even if you were struggling privately.
Common mistakes
- Talking about the case online: Even simple posts like “This lawsuit is such a headache” can be used to cast doubt on your claims.
- Posting activity photos: A snapshot of you lifting a grocery bag or attending a cookout could be portrayed as proof that you’re “fine.”
- Forgetting about friends’ posts: You may not post anything, but if a friend tags you in a picture or comment, it still shows up
What you should do instead
- Pause posting: The safest choice is to take a break from social media until your case is resolved.
- Tighten privacy settings: Even though nothing online is ever fully private, limiting access helps.
- Keep updates personal: Share your recovery story with close family or friends directly, not the internet.
The bottom line
Your case is built on facts, evidence, and credibility. Don’t let social media create an opening for the defense to tell a different story. By pausing and thinking twice before you post, you protect yourself and give your case the best chance for success.