Laptop and many application icons.
Nowadays, the average person has at least seven social media accounts. Many Georgians scroll through these accounts and post updates about their lives every day.
Social media might be a popular way to connect with friends and family, but individuals also know the risks that can come with it. For example, many employers review the social media of prospective employees.
So, employees must be careful about what they post online in the public eye. Employees who suffered injuries on the job must be careful as well.
The employer’s insurance company will likely look at social media
According to The Huffington Post, many insurance companies will review an individual’s social media posts in personal injury claims to try and contest their claim or decrease their compensation. Insurance companies might do the same when it comes to a work injury.
Unfortunately, some employers and insurance companies might contest an employee’s claim to collect workers’ compensation. They might try to contest that the injury occurred at work, or that the employee is suffering significantly from the injury.
That is why insurance companies often comb through social media to try and prove these claims. They often look for:
- Posts about the accident;
- Photos of the individual; and
- Information about their recovery.
An injury can impact one’s entire life. Therefore, even a seemingly unrelated post could be tied back to the individual’s injury claim.
How should employees approach social media after an injury?
After suffering an injury on the job, it might be beneficial if workers avoid using social media altogether. That way, they can significantly reduce the risk of social media impacting their claim for compensation.
However, if workers wish to continue using social media during their recovery, they should take great care to:
- Make sure all social media accounts are private;
- Avoid posting any details about their injury or recovery;
- Avoid posting about any physical activity; and
- Avoid posting about traveling or events, such as parties.
These tips might restrict an individual’s social media presence, but they can help to protect their claim for compensation after suffering a life-changing work injury.
