Social Media Behind the Wheel

Facebook. Instagram. Twitter. Snapchat. For many people, these social media apps play a central role in their everyday lives. From following the news to sharing photos and updates with friends and family, social media provides endless opportunities for people to connect with the world from their phones.

Unfortunately, this 24/7 access – and the need to be constantly connected – has led to the growing number of San Antonio car accidents. According to a 2015 study, nearly four out of every 10 smartphone owners use social media apps while driving. With smartphones becoming more accessible and new social media apps launching seemingly every day, it would not be a surprise if the percentage of drivers who use social media has increased in recent years.

Like talking on the phone and texting behind the wheel, using social media while driving is extremely dangerous. Using social media takes drivers eyes and minds off of the road, and it takes their hands off of the wheel. Drivers who are distracted are far more likely to put others in harm’s way, and there is often little that other motorists can do to protect themselves from being injured in distracted driving collisions.

Proving that Social Media Use is to Blame

In all cases, proving the cause of an auto accident requires a thorough investigation. When you suspect that your accident is the result of another driver reading social media updates or posting to social media, there can be additional challenges involved. However, there can be additional sources evidence available as well; and, at the Law Offics of Ronald A. Ramos, our San Antonio car accident attorneys are experienced in securing the electronic evidence needed to prove our clients’ claims for compensation.

The sources of evidence we may be able to use to prove that the driver who hit you was using social media include:

• Witness Testimony – Did anyone who witnessed the crash see the other driver looking at his or her phone?
• Police Report – Did the driver admit that he or she was using social media at the time of the accident?
• The Driver’s Social Media Posts – Did the driver post something to social media immediately prior to the collision? Or, did he or she say anything on social media after the crash?
• The Driver’s Social Media Account Records – If the driver’s social media profiles are not public (or if a post has been deleted), do his or her private records show any activity at the time the accident occurred?
• Others’ Social Media Accounts – Is there electronic evidence available from the driver’s friends or followers that can be used to help prove that the driver was distracted behind the wheel?

While we are on the subject, after an accident, it is important to limit your social media activity – and to stay off of social media entirely if at all possible. The insurance companies may be watching; and, even if you think a post is not harmful, there is a good chance that the insurance companies will try to find a way to use it against you.

Speak With a San Antonio Accident Lawyer About Your Rights

For more information about protecting your rights after a car accident involving social media, we encourage you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. With offices in San Antonio, we represent auto accident victims and families throughout South Texas. To speak with attorney Ronald A. Ramos in confidence, please call (210) 308-8811 or tell us about your case online now.