What You Post on Social Media May Be Used Against You in a Court of Law

October 6, 2011 · Posted in Richmond Personal Injury Lawyer · Comment 

You would hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t have a Facebook or Twitter account these days. People love to share their thoughts, post what they’re doing that day, and share pictures with their friends. However, did you know that what you publish on these social media sites can be used against you in a court of law?

Let’s say, for instance, that someone was a victim in a bad car accident and claimed severe back injuries that supposedly were due to this accident. However, the Facebook or Twitter page of this person shows pictures of him/her riding roller coasters, skiing, and other activities that a person normally would not do with a back injury. Even if this person had set their Facebook page to “private”, meaning only his/her friends could see postings, a judge can order disclosure of the Facebook password to gain access to any postings.

In regards to Twitter, all information posted to this site is available to the public and can be seen by anyone. During the discovery phase of a trial, the other side could site any tweets to be included in evidence. Even what you may perceive to be a fun, innocent post on a social media site may be used to paint a picture of you in a negative way. This is what happened to Isaiah Lester.

Lester was involved in a tragic car accident with a truck that left his wife, Jessica Lester, dead while he suffered minor injuries. The couple were traveling on State Route 53 when they were hit by a truck driven by William Sprouse who was working for Allied Concrete Co. Isaiah Lester became a beneficiary in a wrongful death case of over $10 million dollars. Case closed, right? Not so fast…

Of course, the attorneys who represented Allied Concrete Co. were not going to go out without a fight. They are now seeking a reversal of that judgment because of pictures that may have been posted Lester’s Facebook page. Lester’s attorney allegedly lied to the court regarding the Facebook page and intentionally withheld evidence regarding the case.

There are numerous other cases that have involved using social media postings as evidence in court. What we can learn from them is to always use discretion when publishing anything on sites like Facebook and Twitter. Before you post anything, ask yourself it if is something that might be taken out of context and portray you in a negative way. You never know who could be keeping tabs on you; it could be an insurance adjuster, attorney, or even the police.

Another lesson to be learned from all of this is to simply tell the truth. If you really were not seriously injured in a car wreck or you may have contributed to an accident, then just be honest. Keep in mind that attorneys and insurance companies will do anything to disprove your case, and that includes attempting to be your “friend”.

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What Should You Know Before Meeting With a Richmond Car Accident Lawyer

October 5, 2011 · Posted in Richmond Car Accident Lawyer · Comment 

If you’ve been involved in an auto wreck, you can benefit from hiring a car accident lawyer to help you with your case. An experienced lawyer usually stays updated on current laws and can help communicate with police authorities and insurance companies regarding the accident. This will help alleviate any pressure or stress on your part. It’s already enough to deal with any injuries that you may have suffered!

Your initial consultation with a lawyer will involve many questions regarding the circumstances and events surrounding the car accident. So what information will you need to know before you meet with your lawyer? Here are a few things to think about and prepare:

  • What was the exact location of the accident and what was the road like (wet, bumpy, potholes, etc.) on that day?
  • Did you take any photographs of the accident? If so, bring them with you to the meeting. Also, if you have any, also bring photographs of your car before the accident.
  • Were there any witnesses or other parties involved in the accident? Write down all their names and telephone numbers. If another party was involved, bring their insurance information.
  • If you went to the hospital or saw a chiropractor after the accident, what diagnosis or treatments did you receive? What symptoms are you experiencing at the moment?
  • How extensive are the damages to your vehicle? Have you already received an estimate for damages from an auto mechanic?

Any and all paperwork pertaining to your accident should be brought to the meeting with your lawyer. This will help the process of collecting information and filing a claim go much smoother and quicker. The more information you have, the better.

During the meeting, your lawyer should be able to tell if your case has potential and whether or not there is sufficient evidence to prove that the other driver acted negligently. Your lawyer should also give you an idea of how long your case will take to be completed.

Finding the right person to help you with your case is an important step to consider. You deserve to be represented by a professional personal injury lawyer who will protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair settlement for the pain and suffering, loss of wages, and damages to your vehicle. A lawyer who specializes in these types of cases will help you investigate the accident, fill out all the insurance paperwork, and if necessary, assemble together expert witnesses if your case does go to court.

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