We are all human. We all have a habit of wanting to share information with others. It is human nature. But, that goes completely against the #1 rule to follow after getting into an accident. That rule is: “Do NOT talk about the accident.” It does not matter what type of accident it is. Unless it is with an attorney or a medical professional, keep your comments about the accident to yourself.
Now, that may seem harsh. You want to tell your friends and family you are okay and you want them to know that you are not hurt. Therefore, if you are to have any contact with family members about the accident, the best thing to say is: “I am not in any immediate danger as far as I know of.” Or, “I cannot talk about the accident right now.”
Why is this? It is just your family, they are not going to say anything. Well, they may be forced to if question during trial. If your case cannot be settled in pre-suit, the process changes and different rules apply. But, what your family says is hearsay right? Maybe. There are hearsay exceptions that may compel them to testify.
But, what do I do if I already posted on social media? Take it down immediately! Social Media can be your worst enemy when it comes to a personal injury case. It does not matter whether it was a car accident, a bicycle accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of accident. Postings on social media can be interpreted in a variety of ways and the defense will be sure not share them in the best light.
Another scenario may be that a concerned love one posted about your accident. You may have commented back: “Don’t worry, I’m fine.” You may not be fine. You may have injuries that may not surface until weeks after the accident. But, the defense is going to point to that comment that you made saying that you were fine. In addition to posting about the accident, be sure not to post any pictures or comments about completing any strenuous activities until your case has closed as well. It can definitely hurt your case when you are complaining of back pain and then you post a week later about squatting 225lbs.
All in all, it is best to not make any comments about your accident unless it is to your lawyer or a medical professional and it is best to stay off of social media until your case is closed. As the old saying goes, “The less said, the better.” If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us at (727) 845-5972. The Personal Injury Attorneys of Nicoletti Law Firm would be happy to help you!
Nicolette R. Nicoletti
Managing Partner
Nicolette R. Nicoletti is the founder and managing partner of the Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers. She was born and raised in New Port Richey, Florida. Nicolette attended Genesis Preparatory School and graduated salutatorian of her class. She then went onto Saint Leo University for her undergraduate education. She graduated magna cum laude from the Honors Program with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. While at Saint Leo University, Nicolette was President of Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society), Secretary of Alpha Phi Sigma (Criminal Justice Honor Society), and an active member of Delta Epsilon Sigma (National Scholastic Honor Society).
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