In today’s digital age, social media plays an integral role in daily life, allowing people to share experiences, thoughts and photos with others. However, when it comes to workers’ compensation claims, posting on social media can have unintended consequences.
Learn how social media activity can potentially harm your workers’ compensation claim and what you should keep in mind to protect yourself.
Presumption of inconsistency
Filing a workers’ compensation claim requires your statements and actions to align with the nature and extent of your injuries. However, what happens if social media posts contradict the claims made in your case? Insurance companies and employers may scrutinize your social media accounts for evidence that contradicts your reported injuries or limitations. People can even misinterpret innocent posts, such as engaging in simple physical activities or participating in events.
Surveillance and misinterpretation
Insurance companies often hire private investigators to conduct surveillance on claimants. They may use your social media posts as evidence to challenge the severity of your injuries or question your credibility. They may also take innocuous photos or comments out of context, which can lead to an inaccurate portrayal of your physical condition. Always be mindful of how others may perceive your social media activity.
Privacy settings and public access
Even with strict privacy settings on your social media accounts, it is important to remember that nothing is truly private on the internet. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may seek access to your social media content during legal proceedings, especially if they believe it could be relevant to your case. Be cautious about accepting friend requests or followers from people you do not know, as individuals connected to the opposing party may attempt to gain access to your posts.
The importance of discretion
To protect your workers’ compensation claim further, exercise discretion online. Avoid discussing your case, your injuries, or the progress of your claim on social media. Refrain from posting photos or comments that someone could use against you.
While social media provides a platform for self-expression and connectivity, it can have unintended consequences for workers’ compensation claims. If your social media activity contradicts the limitations or restrictions you have reported due to your workplace injuries, it can significantly undermine your credibility. Insurance adjusters and employers may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claimed they are, which may lead to a reduction in benefits or a denial of your claim.