Social media trends have a powerful pull, especially among younger drivers. Some of these trends encourage risky behavior behind the wheel, from high-speed challenges to filming stunts for views. What may seem like a harmless video can become a life-changing accident.
As more drivers try to go viral, law enforcement and legal professionals are seeing an increase in crashes caused by these stunts. In many cases, the phones used to record the videos become evidence in court. What starts with content creation can lead to criminal charges, civil lawsuits and even jail time.
From clout chasing to a court date
Participating in a social media trend while driving does not just raise safety concerns. It also creates legal risks that can follow someone for years. These challenges can become serious legal trouble:
- Negligence: If a driver causes a crash while filming a challenge, they can be held legally responsible for injuries, damage and even fatalities.
- Reckless driving charges: Speeding or swerving to record content may result in criminal charges.
- Insurance denial: Some insurers may deny coverage if it is proven that the driver was acting irresponsibly.
- Evidence against the driver: Social media posts, timestamps and comments often get used in court to prove fault or distraction.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving caused over 3200 deaths in 2023. Many of those distractions came from phone use while driving.
Social media platforms are also facing pressure to do more to stop dangerous driving content. But even if a video gets deleted, it can be recovered and used as evidence.
If someone is involved in a crash linked to a viral trend, speaking with a qualified legal professional is critical. A legal team can help pursue compensation or navigate insurance disputes. Staying safe behind the wheel should always come first. No video is worth risking a life or facing a courtroom.