Injured workers in Dallas–Fort Worth often turn to social media to update friends and family about their recovery. But what may feel like harmless sharing can have serious consequences in a workers’ compensation claim.
Insurance companies in Texas monitor social media closely, looking for posts they can use to deny or minimize benefits. What you say, show, or even “like” online may later appear in court as evidence.
Let’s understand how social media affects workers’ comp cases in Texas, and the key dos and don’ts every injured employee should follow.
How Social Media Impacts Texas Workers’ Comp Claims
Surveillance in workers’ compensation cases is no longer limited to private investigators parked outside your home. Today, insurers routinely review Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and even LinkedIn for content that can be used against you in a workers’ compensation claim.
Photos of vacations, check-ins at restaurants, or comments about activities can all be twisted to suggest the workplace injury is less serious than reported. Even posts made by friends or family can be taken out of context.
Texas courts have recognized social media as admissible evidence, and insurers use it aggressively in workers’ compensation surveillance cases. The result may be a claim denial, reduced settlement, or serious credibility challenges at a hearing.
Common Social Media Mistakes After a Work Injury
Posting Photos or Videos
One of the most damaging mistakes is posting images or videos that appear inconsistent with your reported injuries. Something as simple as lifting a child, doing yard work, or enjoying a night out may be presented as proof that your injuries are exaggerated.
Talking About Your Case
Sharing details of the accident, your employer, or your medical treatment can also backfire. A casual comment like “feeling better today” may be used to argue that you no longer need benefits, even if you are still under restrictions.
The Dos of Social Media During a Texas Workers’ Comp Case
There are safe practices that reduce your risk while a claim is pending:
- Keep accounts private — Adjust settings so only trusted friends can see posts, but assume nothing online is truly hidden.
- Limit posting — The less content available, the less insurers can use it against you.
- Monitor tags — Ask friends and family not to tag you in photos or check-ins.
- Follow legal advice — Consult your attorney before posting anything related to your accident, treatment, or recovery.
The Don’ts of Social Media in Workers’ Comp Cases
Equally important are the actions to avoid:
- Don’t delete old posts — Removing content may be seen as destroying evidence and could harm your credibility.
- Don’t vent online — Negative comments about your employer, coworkers, or the insurance company can be used against you.
- Don’t post activity updates — Check-ins at gyms, trips, or other outings can suggest you are more active than your restrictions allow.
- Don’t accept unknown friend requests — Insurers have been known to create fake accounts to gain access to private profiles.
Protecting Your Claim in DFW
The best protection is honesty and consistency. Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys scrutinize every piece of evidence for discrepancies. What you post online should never conflict with what you report to doctors, your employer, or the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation.
Working with a DFW workers’ compensation lawyer ensures you receive guidance not only on the legal process but also on how to manage your social media presence while your claim is pending. A single post should never be the reason an injured worker loses benefits.
Read Also: Tips for Reporting a Workplace Injury No Matter How Matter
Let a Texas Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Protect Your Claim
At the Law Offices of Bailey & Galyen, we help injured employees across Dallas–Fort Worth secure the benefits they deserve while guarding against insurer tactics.
To schedule an appointment, call 844-402-2992 or contact us online. Our phones are answered 24/7 — because your recovery cannot wait. Se habla español.
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