Social media plays a central role in our society. We share about our food, our highs, our lows. Social media platforms offer a very convenient way to stay connected with family and friends, but they can also have unintended consequences. You may already know that potential employers and college admission offices scour Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and the like, but did you know that claims adjustors for insurance companies do this, too??
Believe it or not, something you write on social media can impact your insurance claim, even after a case has been settled.
How Can Social Media Impact My Claim?
Once you post something on social media, it becomes a part of your digital footprint. It may be visible on websites like The Wayback Machine even when you think it’s gone. This digital trail can have far-reaching consequences, particularly in insurance claims cases. Let’s take a closer look at how your social media posts might impact your insurance claim.
1. Surveillance and Monitoring: Big Brother is Watching
Insurance companies don’t hide that they dig into claimants’ social media profiles. They can use anything they find to discredit your claims. For example, if you’ve filed a personal injury claim due to a car accident and claim you need physical therapy for your back injuries, you probably shouldn’t post pictures of yourself driving a boat on the Lake or partying with friends at a club. It could be used as evidence that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim.
Insurance companies may monitor your social media accounts even if your case has been settled. Any contradictory information they discover could be used against you in future disputes.
2. Accidental Admissions That Discredit Your Claim
Casual posts or comments on social media may inadvertently contain admissions that can affect your claim. For example, if you mention in a post that you felt fine after the accident, this statement could be used to argue that you weren’t as injured as you claimed in your case. You might have just been trying to reassure your Great-Aunt Mildred that you were okay, but that’s not how the insurance adjustor will read it. It’s easy for them to take things out of context and build them into a case that saves their company from paying out.
3. Privacy Concerns: Nothing’s Really Private
While you may have privacy settings on your social media accounts, it isn’t foolproof. It’s still possible for adjustors to access your information, especially if someone in your network shares your posts or your profile is public. The bottom line? You shouldn’t post about your case at all on social media. Ever. And you should ensure your friends and family don’t tag you in photos that might appear on their public accounts.
So How Can You Protect Your Insurance Claim?
Before you do anything, ask a lawyer what they recommend. They can advise you of the particulars relevant to your situation. Here are some general guidelines, though, that are always good to remember.
- Be Cautious: Exercise caution when posting or commenting on social media, especially during an ongoing insurance claim. Avoid discussing your case, injuries, or any financial details related to your settlement.
- Adjust Privacy Settings: Review and adjust your social media privacy settings to limit access to your information. However, remember that nothing is entirely foolproof, so refrain from posting sensitive information.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney specializing in personal injury and insurance claims.
- Archive Your Posts: Consider archiving or temporarily deactivating your social media accounts during the claims process.
Skilled Personal Injury and Insurance Claims Illinois Lawyers Serving Aurora and Naperville
In the age of social media, what you say or post online can have significant and long-lasting consequences, even on insurance claims that have been settled. Insurance companies are vigilant in monitoring claimants’ digital footprints, and any discrepancies or unintended admissions can be used against you.
Cullotta Bravo Law has a dedicated team of attorneys experienced in personal injury and insurance claims. If you have questions about your insurance claim, reach out for a free consultation. We’re here to help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 630-898-7800 or reach out online to discuss your case and address any concerns related to social media and your insurance claim.
