Whether checking in on family members or sharing personal posts, the use of social media plays an important role in the daily routines of many. Although often harmless, there are times when a simple post can lead to unintended consequences. Filing for a workers’ compensation claim is one such time.
How can a social media post impact my workers’ compensation claim?
When you file a workers’ compensation claim, insurance companies are likely to review social media activity to find evidence that contradicts the claim. Evidence they will look for can include:
- Photos or videos of physical activities: Images or videos of yourself engaging in activities that contradict your injury claims, such as playing sports or lifting heavy objects.
- Check-ins at locations: Checking in at places that suggest you are more active than your claim indicates, like gyms or hiking trails, can raise red flags.
- Complaints about your employer or the claim process: They can also use negative comments about your employer or the claims process to question your credibility and intentions.
Those reviewing your claim are likely to use these types of posts to argue that your injury is not as severe as you claim, potentially jeopardizing your compensation.
Can I use social media at all?
You can, just do so safely. Adjust your privacy settings to better ensure only trusted family members and friends have access to your account. However, know that even the most private of accounts is never truly private. It is also important to note that if the case goes to court the other side could request the court provide access to these accounts. Make posts with this in mind and refrain from posts that could fall within any of the common mistakes noted above.
While social media is a valuable tool for staying connected, it can pose risks during a workers’ compensation claim. By understanding what types of posts to avoid and adopting safe social media practices, you can protect your claim while using social media in a way that is less likely to impact your case. Always remember, when in doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution.