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The digital age has brought many changes to our world, and one of the most significant has been the way it has changed the way we communicate. In the past, communication was primarily face-to-face or done through writing, but now we can share instantly with anyone in the world through text, email, or social media.
How Popular is Social Media?
Over the years, the many methods of communication integrated their way into all aspects of our lives, especially while driving on the roads. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation's (NCDOT) most recent car accident data, distracted driving was the cause of more than 44,000 motor vehicle crashes. These crashes resulted in tens of thousands of injuries and over 150 fatalities.
While it is dangerous to use your phone while operating a vehicle, you should know that it can also be damaging to use it following a car accident. You may find it challenging to navigate a potential insurance claim if it is found that you posted on social media regarding your accident.
Social Media Can Hurt Your Claim
Posting to social media after a car accident can be tempting for several reasons. People may want to share the news of what happened with their friends and family. They may want to post photos or videos of the accident scene, or they may simply wish to express their emotions about the accident. In any case, however, it is essential to exercise caution when posting to social media after a car accident.
Insurance Companies Will Use It Against You
It is important to remember that insurance companies are profit-seeking businesses. Their primary goal is to make money for their shareholders, which means they will always try to pay out as little as possible on claims. To do this, they use a variety of tactics, one of which is monitoring a policyholder's social media after an accident. They will attempt to:
Prove You Were At Fault
Even if you did not cause the accident, an insurance company may take a close look at your social media account and search for posts, photos or status updates that may corroborate their claim that you caused the crash.
Downplay Your Injuries
If you post photos or videos of yourself engaging in certain activities, an insurance company may claim that the actions are inconsistent with your injuries and that you were never really hurt.
In some cases, insurance companies have even hired private investigators to follow claimants and collect evidence of their activities. As a result, it is crucial for anyone who has been injured in an accident to be aware that their social media activity may be used against them by the insurance company. If you must use social media, be mindful of what you are posting and limit your activity to sharing only essential information. It is recommended that you speak with an attorney before posting anything that could impact your case.
Car Accident Attorneys in Durham
The car accident attorneys at Wallace Pierce Law are dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims and helping them get the compensation they deserve. We understand the challenges that accident victims face, and we work tirelessly to help them get their lives back on track. Our team has a proven track record of success, and we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases.
For a free initial consultation, call us today at (919) 887-7892 or fill out our form online!