Warning for injured workers who post confidential information on social media.
We are always on the lookout for interesting news items to illustrate dangers associated with Michigan workers’ comp claims. Getting in trouble for posting on social media is a common theme. It can also cost you a settlement!
CNN previously reported about a man who forfeited an $80,000 discrimination settlement after his daughter posted about it on Facebook. The terms of settlement included a confidentially provision that had been broken.
It has also been reported that Harvard University revoked admissions for 10 students caught posting offensive items on Facebook. Many students felt this was unfair.
We tell our clients to never post anything on social media and deactivate accounts. Insurance companies routinely hire private investigators to perform activity checks. Websites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter will be examined looking for incriminating evidence. Innocent status updates or posts might be taken out-of-context and used against a person in court.
A workers’ comp settlement is also not final until 15 days after magistrate approval. Either side can ask for settlement to be revoked. This will only be permitted based upon good cause or a legal reason. Simply changing your mind is not sufficient.
We have heard of insurance companies taking back money after discovering new medical information such as a cancer diagnosis or sudden death. It also possible to revoke a settlement if suspected fraud has been detected. Please be careful when posting on social media!
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Facebook Posts That Get Claimants In Trouble
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by Got Credit.
