Greece
Spanish
It is impossible to go anywhere in Chicago without seeing someone using a smartphone. After all, according to the Pew Research Center, about 85% of Americans own one. These phones, of course, allow users to post to social media in real-time.
After a car accident, it may be tempting to show your social media followers the crash scene. You even may want to tell them how the accident happened and who you believe is to blame for it. Generally, though, it is not a good idea to say anything about a crash on social media.
Alarming your loved ones
Your loved ones probably see what you post online. Because you want everyone you love to know whether you are ok, you should probably have a conversation with them before you tell the world about your crash.
Distracting your attention
There are a number of tasks you must accomplish after an accident. Among others, these include the following:
- Calling the police
- Talking to witnesses
- Taking photographs
- Visiting the emergency room
- Rendering assistance to others
If you are posting to social media, you may not be able to devote your full attention to these pressing matters. Even worse, you may put yourself in danger. That is, you may inadvertently step into oncoming traffic or otherwise jeopardize your physical safety.
Complicating your insurance claim
Insurance adjusters constantly look for reasons either to deny claims or to offer unconscionably low settlements. If your social media posts make it look like you are to blame for the accident, you may not receive the financial compensation you deserve. You also may open yourself up to a potential lawsuit.
Ultimately, by staying off social media in the hours, days and weeks after a car crash, you may improve your chances of emerging from the accident in a good place.