Social media activity can significantly impact workers’ compensation claims, much like it does in other legal matters. Insurance adjusters and employers’ lawyers may check claimants’ online profiles for information that could affect the case.
Your posts, photos and comments can potentially undermine your claim or even be used against you. To help protect your workers’ comp case, here are three crucial things you should avoid doing on social media.
Don’t post about your injury or recovery
One of the most important things to avoid is sharing information about your injury or recovery process on social media. This includes:
- Posting photos or videos of yourself engaging in physical activity
- Discussing your medical treatments or appointments
- Sharing updates about your pain levels or recovery progress
- Complaining about your injury or its impact on your life
Why is this crucial? Because some insurance companies may monitor claimants’ social media accounts. Any posts that contradict your reported injury severity or suggest you are recovering faster than claimed could be a reason to dispute your workers’ comp claim.
It is best to keep all related information off social media entirely. If you need to communicate about your condition, do so privately with your doctor or close family members.
Avoid checking in or tagging your location
You may want to avoid using social media features that reveal your location, such as checking in at businesses, restaurants or events. Insurers or employers may use location data to challenge your claim.
For example, if you check in at a location that seems inconsistent with your injury, like a gym or amusement park, it could raise doubts about the severity of your condition. Even seemingly innocent check-ins in a store or restaurant might suggest you are more mobile or active than you have claimed.
Don’t discuss your case or employment
This tip might seem obvious, but many claimants still make this mistake on social media. When dealing with your claim, it is crucial to avoid discussing your case or employment situation. For instance, you should not:
- Share details about your workplace accident
- Post about conversations with our lawyer or doctor
- Comment on your employer or coworkers
- Mention any settlement offers or negotiations
Again, other parties can use any information you share against you. Even if your account is private, remember that screenshots can be shared and your posts may still find their way to insurance companies and employers.
Keep your workers’ compensation claim private
While you are handling a work injury claim, the best approach is to keep it private, both online and offline. Only discuss your case with relevant people, such as your doctor or attorney.
By following these simple guidelines, you can protect your claim and avoid any potential pitfalls down the line. For the safest approach, try to stay off social media altogether and focus on your recovery.
