Check out our February newsletter!
Why Your Posts Matter in Injury Lawsuits Facebook Is 21 … and It’s Watching
Every year on Feb. 4, Facebook turns another year older. This year, it turns 21! That’s two decades of photos, check-ins, opinions, and life updates shared with the world. For many people, Facebook has become second nature, a place to document little moments without a second thought. However, while it may seem casual and even harmless, Facebook has become one of the most influential and dangerous players in the legal system, particularly in personal injury cases. What most people don’t realize is that social media doesn’t just tell your story … it tells a version of your story, and in a courtroom or settlement negotiation, that version can be taken entirely out of context. We live in a time when everyone is connected online, yet those connections often create distance from reality. The legal system doesn’t see nuance the way humans do. It sees posts, photos, timestamps, and captions and, from there, draws conclusions. From a legal standpoint, Facebook operates like an open microphone. In criminal cases, suspects are warned that anything they say can and will be used against them. Social media works the same way, except no one stops you before you post and asks if you’re sure, and unlike a spoken comment that might be forgotten, a Facebook post can live forever. It can resurface months or even years later in cases, including personal injury lawsuits.
One of the greatest problems is that social media only shows a highlight reel. People post their best moments, not their worst days. But insurance companies and defense attorneys don’t care about what isn’t shown; they focus on what is. A smiling photo, a check-in at an event, or a comment that sounds upbeat can be used to argue that an injured person isn’t really hurt. We had a client who attended a Clemson football game. She had been injured, but she went to the game with her children, who were excited to visit the campus and potentially attend college there one day. Photos showed her standing, smiling, and enjoying the day. To the defense, that was all they needed. Their argument was simple: She looks fine. What those photos didn’t show was the full reality. She pushed herself because she wanted to be there for her kids. She paid for it afterward, spending the next day in bed, sore and exhausted. Her pain didn’t make it into the Facebook post, but it still became a weapon against her claim. Even innocent moments can be misused when taken out of context. Then there’s the issue of oversharing. People often talk too freely online, making comments they wouldn’t think twice about in the moment. Admissions, jokes, emotional rants, or threats, once posted, can come back in devastating ways. Attorneys have seen strong defenses crumble because of something a client posted on Facebook late at night or in a moment of anger. A single “dumb” post can erase credibility or effectively wipe out legal options entirely. The danger doesn’t stop with injury cases. In family court, social media posts can violate court orders, especially when one party badmouths the other. The consequences can include contempt of court. As Facebook celebrates another birthday, it’s worth remembering the consequences of using it carelessly. What you post may feel personal, but in the eyes of the law, it may be used as evidence. In personal injury cases, sometimes the smartest move isn’t knowing what to say; it’s knowing when to stay silent.
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• Wrongful death • Serious accident injuries • Work injuries
• Family law (consultation fee required. We’ll explain when you call.)
Give the gift of peace of mind, and make sure callers tell us you sent them so we can thank you! Call 864.898.6458.
864.582.0416
The Parents’ Guide to Getting Teens to Open Up
NO NAGGING REQUIRED
Connecting with teens can feel like navigating a maze. One minute, they’re chatty, the next, they retreat into their rooms or scroll endlessly on their phones. As a parent, you may wonder: How do I get them to open up? The secret often lies not in giving advice or nagging, but in asking the right questions that show you genuinely want to understand their world. Ask about their inner world. Teens crave connection and validation, even when it doesn’t seem like it. Instead of asking the usual “How was school?” try questions that invite reflection and honesty. For example, ask, “What’s something you wish adults understood better about your life?” This simple question allows them to share feelings they usually keep hidden and shows you’re willing to listen without judgment. Explore their dreams and ambitions. Teens want to envision their futures beyond homework and social pressures. Questions like “How do you picture
your life five years from now?” or “If fear weren’t a factor, what risk would you take?” encourage them to dream and explore possibilities safely. These conversations show you care about their goals and give them room to imagine who they want to become. Notice the small things. Sometimes, connection is in the details. Ask questions such as “What’s a small thing that always makes your day better?” or “What’s your favorite memory of us together?” These moments let your teen know you notice and value the little joys in their life, which can strengthen your bond in subtle and powerful ways. Give them a voice. Teens want to feel heard in family life, too. Questions like “If you could change one rule in our house, which would it be?” or “What’s something you wish we did together more often?” make them feel respected and involved in decisions that affect them.
Show love and encouragement. Finally, ask questions that reinforce trust and emotional safety. “Do you know how proud I am of you?” or “What’s something I do that makes you feel loved?” express affirmation and support, reminding them they are seen and valued. The key is to ask without pressure, listen without interrupting, and let the conversation flow naturally. These questions aren’t meant to draw out perfect answers, but rather to create connection, understanding, and a space where your teen feels truly known. Start small, stay genuine, and watch your relationship grow in meaningful ways.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS “I recently had a call with Rob Usry, and it was an excellent experience. He took the time to clearly explain my situation and helped me decide whether I actually needed legal representation. What stood out most was his honesty — he doesn’t try to take advantage of people or push services they don’t need. It’s refreshing to speak with an attorney who puts integrity first. I truly appreciate his guidance and would recommend him to anyone looking for straightforward, trustworthy legal advice.”
–Cora Moss
“I have been working with Holland & Usry for about a year now, and what a pleasure it has been. Since my accident happened, they have been there every step of the way for me, answering all my questions and helping me understand things. Rob, Rose, and their whole team are great. They stop whatever they are doing to help me whenever I call. I can recover in peace knowing they are taking care of me. I cannot thank them all enough.”
–Cindy Bellini
bhollandlawfirm.com
TURNING A TRAGIC DUI COLLISION INTO ACCOUNTABILITY
$450,000 Recovered for Injured Woman
This case involved securing a $450,000 recovery for Lane, a 34-year-old small- business owner from Tryon, North Carolina, who was seriously injured by a drunk driver in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. On July 21, 2023, around 10:50 p.m., Lane was driving her late grandmother’s vehicle home on a dark, rural stretch of Highway 11. A driver traveling in the opposite direction crossed the center line and struck
Lane nearly head-on. Witnesses reported the at-fault driver was operating a black vehicle without headlights, giving Lane no time to react. The driver was arrested for DUI, and a blood test later showed a BAC of .126, well above the legal limit. Lane suffered severe injuries, including a shattered right ankle requiring two surgeries, compression fractures at T7 and L3, and a broken left hand. She needed a back brace, boot, walker, and extensive medical care. Despite the clear liability, the case presented major legal hurdles. First, the insurance company covering Lane’s grandmother’s car denied underinsured motorist coverage, alleging Lane lacked permission to drive the vehicle. That claim was defeated through testimony from the personal representative of the grandmother’s estate, who confirmed Lane was fully authorized. Second, hospital records reflected that Lane had a high blood alcohol reading. South Carolina law, however, bars such
evidence unless it contributed to the crash. A thorough investigation, including witness statements, EMT and firefighter observations, and medical notes, showed no signs of impairment. The insurer ultimately abandoned this argument. Using South Carolina law allowing recovery beyond standard limits in DUI cases involving punitive damages, full policy limits were obtained: $350,000 from the grandmother’s policy and an additional $75,000 from Lane’s own North Carolina underinsured motorist coverage. Finally, Lane faced overwhelming medical bills exceeding $127,000 with no health insurance. Through negotiation, those bills were reduced to about $81,000, saving her roughly $46,000.
*Past outcomes don’t guarantee future results. Every case is different, and all cases depend on unique facts and laws.
HOT HONEY- INFUSED FETA CHICKEN
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” –Joshua 1:9 “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” –2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Good News
Directions 1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. 2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. 3. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. 4. In a small bowl, mix hot honey and minced garlic to create a glaze. 5. Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Pour the hot honey mixture over top. 6. Sprinkle chicken with crumbled feta, then rosemary or thyme. 7. Bake at 400 F for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F. 8. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization. 9. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon juice and extra herbs before serving.
Ingredients
• 2 large boneless
skinless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 tbsp hot honey • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 3 tbsp crumbled feta cheese • 2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped (or thyme) • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
864.582.0416
Inspired by LadySavor.com
* This newsletter is intended to educate the public about personal injury, workers’ compensation, criminal defense, and family law issues. You can copy and distribute it as long as you copy the entire newsletter. But the newsletter is not intended to be legal advice; you should ask a lawyer about your specific case. Every case is different, and all case outcomes depend on unique facts and laws.
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
101 W. St. John St. Suite 206 Spartanburg, SC 29306
INSIDE this issue 1. Your Facebook Timeline vs. Your Injury Claim 2. Want Your Teen to Open Up? Try Asking These Heartfelt Questions Client Testimonials
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3. Nearly Head-On DUI Crash Leads to $450,000 Recovery Hot Honey-Infused Feta Chicken
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4. Reclaiming Valentine’s Day for Yourself
If you no longer want to receive this newsletter, call Pam at 864.582.0416 or email Rob@bhollandlawfirm.com .
LOVE YOURSELF LIKE YOU MEAN IT YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY SELF-CARE GUIDE
For many Americans, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with romance. We get reservations weeks or months in advance, shower our partners in love and affection, and enjoy an extravagant date night. It’s a day filled with high expectations, and with that comes stress and pressure. If you feel like you’re always going above and beyond to impress on Valentine’s Day without getting the same effort in return, it may be time to show yourself some extra love.
How you approach self-care is entirely up to you, but it almost always involves engaging in relaxing and enjoyable activities. Think about the things you love to do the most. When was the last time you played a round of golf, went on a walk through nature, or enjoyed your favorite movie uninterrupted? Whatever your favorite activity may be, find a way to incorporate it into your self-care day. In addition to your favorite activities, take some time to pamper yourself. Get a massage, buy something for yourself that you really want, or take a long, relaxing bath. These actions will help you feel good inside and out! To ensure your self-care day is a success, consider turning off your phone and other devices for the duration of the day. Scrolling through social media will not help you feel any better; in fact, it will likely make you feel worse. This is a time to focus on yourself and ensure you get the attention and love you deserve. If you waste the whole day scrolling through TikTok or X, you’ll focus on everything but yourself.
Everyone deserves a happy and fulfilling life, but it can be hard to achieve when work, relationships, and other pressures weigh us down. Most of us rarely take time for ourselves, so as the pressure builds, we start to experience episodes of burnout, depression, and anxiety. This Valentine’s Day or sometime close to it, take time for yourself and practice self-care. It will help you feel rejuvenated while removing any negative thoughts that have been lingering around.
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