Unveiling the World of Private Investigation in Auto Accident Cases

When auto accidents occur, they often lead to disputes about liability, damages, and injuries. Lawyers, insurance companies, and individuals may need detailed evidence to support their claims in court or during settlement negotiations. This is where private investigators (PIs) step in, playing a critical role in uncovering the truth and providing solid evidence to bolster legal cases.

Social media and surveillance have become indispensable tools for private investigators, offering a modern approach to uncovering evidence. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok provide a wealth of publicly accessible information that can reveal key details about a subject’s activities, behavior, and claims. Investigators analyze posts, photos, and interactions to identify inconsistencies in stories or gather leads that support legal cases. On this episode of Not Another TV Lawyer, Keith O'Neal, a seasoned private investigator joins our hosts to shed light on the pivotal role private investigators play in legal disputes, especially in auto accident cases, where gathering evidence can make or break a case.

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Episode 7: Social Media and Surveillance with Keith O'Neal

In this episode of Not Another TV Lawyer, hosts Chris Shakib and Jessica Hall introduce Keith O'Neal, a private investigator with over 35 years of experience, including time with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. Keith discusses his transition to private investigation, the role of social media in gathering evidence, and the critical nature of surveillance in both civil and family law cases. The discussion also touches on the importance of honesty for clients undergoing litigation and the potential pitfalls of social media oversharing.

Video time-stamps are available at the end of this blog in the Episode Notes.

Why Private Investigators Are Essential for Lawyers and Insurance Companies

Lawyers and insurance companies rely on private investigators to gather evidence that their internal teams may lack the time or resources to obtain. Private investigators are objective third parties who focus solely on uncovering facts. Their findings often strengthen cases by:

• Supporting Legal Arguments: Accurate evidence bolsters claims in court or during negotiations.

• Exposing Fraud: Surveillance and research can reveal inconsistencies, preventing costly payouts for false claims.

• Providing Expert Testimony: Many private investigators are trained to testify in court, presenting their findings in a clear and professional manner.

For Keith O’Neal, his journey began with an extensive career in law enforcement, tackling everything from patrol to narcotics. Now, as a private investigator, he continues his mission to serve the community—albeit from a different angle. Encouraged by attorneys like Chris Shakib, Keith has redirected his investigative prowess to assist in civil, family, and personal injury cases.

The collaboration between private investigators like Keith and legal teams like Chris and Jessica is particularly vital in auto accident disputes, where liability and damages often hinge on evidence. Investigators assist by:

1. Reconstructing Accident Scenes: Gathering physical evidence like skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions to create detailed reconstructions.

2. Interviewing Witnesses: Locating and documenting eyewitness accounts that might otherwise be overlooked.

3. Exposing Fraud: Detecting exaggerated or false claims through surveillance and social media analysis.

4. Uncovering Digital Evidence: Using telematics and public databases to gather critical case details.

These efforts not only support legal arguments but also protect clients from baseless accusations or inflated claims.

“I’ve always been about finding the truth,” Keith shares. And in today’s digital age, the truth often lies within a combination of physical and digital evidence.

Social Media: The Goldmine of Modern Investigations

Keith emphasizes that social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram are among the first places he looks when working a case. Whether it’s an auto accident or a family dispute, people’s online behaviors often reveal crucial details that traditional investigations might miss. For example, a plaintiff in an auto accident case claiming severe injuries might post videos engaging in physically demanding activities, undermining their claims.

"Pretty much any case that I work these days, one of the first things I do is take a look at people's social media history,” Keith explains. For instance, in an auto accident case, a plaintiff claiming debilitating injuries might unknowingly post videos of themselves engaging in physical activities, casting doubt on their claims. Keith cautions, "It's heartbreaking sometimes when I have to call you and tell you what I've come across if it's a client of mine."

Of course, not all results are negative. Social media can also support a legal case by helping private investigators locate eye witnesses and even uncover the defendant sharing key information across the internet. In any case, Chris, Jessica and Keith all agree that when you're involved in a legal matter, it is best to stay off social media or limit your postings.

The Art and Ethics of Surveillance

Surveillance is another cornerstone of private investigations. For auto accident cases, this might involve discreetly monitoring an individual to verify the legitimacy of their injury claims or uncover inconsistencies in their story.

Keith draws a clear line between what’s legal and ethical: “Investigators legally can't go peeking over the fence in the backyard.” Yet, public spaces and even technology embedded in vehicles offer investigators ample opportunities to observe and gather evidence.

Surveillance by private investigators serves as a powerful reminder for plaintiffs to be truthful, as any exaggeration or fabrication is likely to be uncovered. Investigators are skilled in observing and documenting real-world behaviors, often uncovering discrepancies between digital footprints and real-world actions. This means that any dishonesty is not just risky—it’s almost certain to be exposed, potentially damaging credibility and derailing legal proceedings. Simply put, honesty isn’t just the best policy; it’s the safest strategy when under investigation.

Chris echoes this sentiment, advising clients to always remain truthful: “If you exaggerate, there’s no coming back from that. Honesty is your best ally.”

Collaboration for Justice

Keith O’Neal’s expertise highlights the essential partnership between private investigators and legal professionals. From using cutting-edge technology to navigating the complexities of social media, his work ensures that cases are built on a foundation of truth.

As Jessica Hall succinctly puts it, “I have him on speed dial.” Whether uncovering crucial details in auto accident disputes or supporting family law cases, investigators like Keith provide the evidence attorneys need to pursue justice effectively.

Meet our Guest

Keith O'Neal

Keith O'Neal is the CEO of O'Neal Investigations, Inc., a leading Private Investigative Agency primarily serving Northeast Florida, with a network of contacts across the country. With over 35 years of law enforcement experience, Keith’s expertise lies in undercover investigations across various units, including organized crime, which has prepared him to handle complex private investigation cases. His investigative work covers a range of areas from divorce and child custody to workman's compensation claims.

In 2017, Keith founded O'Neal Investigations, Inc., where he continues to collaborate with top attorneys in Northeast Florida, consistently building strong cases that result in positive outcomes for his clients. As a member of the Florida Association of Licensed Investigators, Keith is committed to supporting the investigative community and frequently mentors newly licensed private investigators.

Outside of work, Keith enjoys kayak fishing and riding his Harley Davidson.

You can connect with Keith on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/keith-o’neal-746084199,
or visit his company website: www.onealinvestigations.com.

Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 904-703-8825

Episode Notes

If you're interested in the intersection of law and private investigation, this episode is for you!

00:00 Introduction to Not Another TV Lawyer

00:29 Meet Keith O'Neal: Private Investigator

00:51 Keith's Background and Career at Jacksonville Sheriff's Office

02:29 Transition to Private Investigation

03:47 The Role of Social Media in Investigations

10:31 Tracking People Down: Techniques and Examples

15:20 Surveillance: Methods and Legal Boundaries

25:04 Investigating Accidents and Assets

29:31 Conclusion and Contact Information