Posted by	Super Administrator Posted on Tuesday, 28 June 2016 in Personal Injury	
The Plaintiff&#039;s Claims
According to defense lawyers, the woman noted the escalator was not equipped with brush guards, which are safety devices that prevent riders’ feet from getting caught between the outer edges of the step and the metal wall. Though common, Connecticut law does not require brush guards on escalators. The woman claimed that the heel of her shoe caught in the gap between the step and the wall, causing her serious ankle injury. Surveillance video from the mall, however, did not substantiate her claim.
During the trial, the injured woman reportedly showed up using a cane and appearing quite disabled. She claimed that the injury severely impacted her quality of life. A scan of her social media accounts seemed to show otherwise. Court records indicate that the defense presented the woman’s social media posts that depict her performing her job as a Zumba dance instructor. The stark contrast between her claims of disability and her appearance on social media seemed to create serious doubts in the mind of the jury. Deliberations took less 20 minutes, and the jurors returned a verdict in favor of the mall and the escalator company.
One of the biggest criticisms of Facebook and other social media outlets is that they are all about appearances. It is easy to create an alternate version of one’s self on the internet. Appearances, however, can matter a great deal during a legal proceeding, especially when social media posts seem to be contradictory to claims being made in the courtroom. When you are involved in any type of proceeding, it is important to remember that social media posts are not private, even if you intend them to be. Anything you say or post on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram could easily become evidence in your case, even if it is just to challenge your credibility.
If you have been injured and would like to know more about your options for seeking the compensation you need to get back on track, contact an experienced Hartford personal injury lawyer. We will work hard to protect your rights, and help you avoid making potentially damaging mistakes along the way. Call 860-290-8690 for a free consultation today.
http://marketingland.com/pew-survey-nearly-two-thirds-of-all-americans-use-social-media-146026
http://www.ctlawtribune.com/id=1202759533210/Defense-Verdict-Allows-Mall-to-Escape-Liability-for-Escalator-Riders-Injury