Whether you work in a notoriously dangerous industry or one that is relatively safe in nature, you could end up sustaining occupational harm while executing your job-related duties. You could suffer acute injury due to an accident-related injury or become ill due to exposure to toxic substances. You could also sustain repetitive trauma or aggravate a preexisting medical condition.
Regardless of how you get hurt, if you do end up sustaining work-related harm, it is going to be important to avoid posting about your circumstances on social media.
Whether you complain about the pain you’re in, reference an accident that caused your harm or even respond to someone else’s post about work-related injuries, your activity could compromise your ability to receive the compensation to which you’re rightfully entitled.
Why is social media activity risky right now?
Until your legal situation is resolved, the words, videos and photos that you post on social media could be used by others to weaken your case.
For example, if you’re applying for workers’ compensation benefits due to a back or shoulder injury, a picture of you lifting your child could be interpreted as evidence that you are not as hurt as you claim to be. Photos of you smiling at a luncheon could be used to say that you’re not really in chronic pain. Because it’s hard to know what could be twisted out of context, it’s safer to post nothing.
Generally, it is a good idea to avoid social media until you’ve been paid what you’re owed. But, if you can’t stay off social media that long, just be very careful that what you post can’t be used to undermine the strength of your case.