By Shane Smith – Personal Injury Attorney at Shane Smith Law
We get this question all the time at Shane Smith Law:
“What does social media have to do with my car accident case?”
Short answer?
More than you think.
We live in a world where everything is shared online.
Vacations. Dinner dates. Funny memes.
But if you’ve been in a car accident and you’re filing a personal injury claim, what you post online can come back to bite you.
📱 Why Social Media Posts Can Be Dangerous After a Wreck
Insurance companies are always looking for ways to discredit your pain—and social media is a goldmine.
If you’re posting things like:
- Photos from a trip
- Smiling selfies
- Workout check-ins
- Concerts, hikes, or events
…they might use those posts to say:
“They don’t look hurt.”
“They’re clearly enjoying life.”
“Their injuries must not be that serious.”
Even if you’re just trying to put on a brave face, the adjuster may twist it into evidence that you’re not in pain.
For a free legal consultation, call (980) 246-2656
🧠 Here’s What They Won’t See
What the picture doesn’t show is:
- You gritting your teeth through the pain for your kid’s birthday party
- You missing half the trip because you had to rest in the hotel room
- You trying to honor a non–refundable vacation even though you’re hurting
They won’t give you the benefit of the doubt; and they don’t have to.
They’ll just use the photo to question your credibility, and it could cost you money in the end.
🔐 What Should You Do?
Here’s what I recommend to all of our clients:
✅ Limit your posting, especially anything that shows travel, events, or activities.
✅ Set your social accounts to private.
✅ Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.
✅ Tell your friends and family not to tag you or post about you during your recovery.
And when in doubt → ask your lawyer before you post.
Final Thoughts from Shane
Social media can be fun, but it’s not your friend in a personal injury case.
What seems harmless can easily be taken out of context and the insurance companies will be watching.
If you’re in a wreck and you’re in pain, protect your case like it matters because it does.
📞 In pain? Call Shane! 980-999-9999
💼 Shane Smith Law – Focus on Healing. We’ll Handle the Rest.
📺 Like what you read? Check out our other blogs on frequently asked questions or YouTube channel to stay informed about your rights after an accident.
Call or text (980) 246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
