Like the majority of Americans, you most likely have some sort of social media account and it’s a good bet that you check it, post to it, or upload content to it on a regular basis. Although this is perfectly normal in today’s society, before you post one more thing, you should be aware of who’s watching.

With the popularity of social media in today’s society, it’s no surprise that companies use these outlets to push their products on you, tapping into your likes and dislikes to recommend goods and services. However, some companies take it a step further and use your public information against you. Insurance companies are a good example.

Many insurance companies monitor popular sites that may contain posts negating an applicant’s claim. If the adjuster discovers any reasonable evidence that suggests the claim was falsified or that gives him an argument to suggest fraud, he can then deny the claim.

So what can you do to protect yourself and your claim?

Silence is Golden: Keeping Your Accident Off the Grid Can Help Increase Your Settlement

Obviously, posting a photo of you running a marathon while awaiting an injury settlement is a bad idea, but you also need to be aware that “throwback” posts (you ran the marathon last year) and other people tagging you in their photos can make adjusters suspicious.

This is why it is best to not risk it. An overzealous insurance adjuster is looking for anything he can use against you. If you’re a victim of a car accident, try to refrain from posting, tweeting, or uploading the following information:

  • Photos of the crash. Although you if you’re able, you should definitely take photos for your lawyer, do not post them on online until after the claim has been settled. A shadow, smudge, or discoloration could lead the adjuster to question the damage.
  • Details of the accident. If every single detail isn’t exactly how you reported it in your claim, an adjuster may grow suspicious.
  • Predicted settlement amounts. Letting an adjuster know how much you hope to get could change how much you actually get, and not for the better.
  • Discussions of injuries. By discussing your injuries, you could let something slip that wasn’t part of your claim or say something that makes the adjuster and your lawyer question the severity of the injury.
  • Locations. Posting your location can allow an adjuster to assume you’re participating in activities that you may not be, compromising the validity of your claim.

To cover your bases, keep the accident out of your profiles, pages, and accounts until your claim has been settled. For extra security, make all of your accounts private, so there is no risk of misinterpretation.

Help, Support, and a Watchful Eye

If you’ve recently been injured in a car accident and need help pursuing your claim, contact us today. Our knowledge and eagerness to see justice prevail will ensure that you follow all the rules, properly file your claim, and aren’t surprised by insurance gambits. We’ll make sure you’re properly prepared and know exactly what to do and what not to do to make sure your claim has the best chance for approval. Call today for a free consultation and review of your case.

Still itching to post something? Instead of posting about your accident, share this article with your followers, then browse our sites on Facebook and Google+ to get more helpful information and advice.