TikTok Lawsuit Basics

February 8, 2024 | Attorney, Matthew Dolman

TikTok is the worldwide, popular social media platform that has captured the attention of millions of teenagers globally. You or your child may spend hours scrolling through videos, learning the latest trends, attempting unusual challenges, or laughing at comedic sketches. Unfortunately, TikTok addiction is a real thing, and excessive social media use has harmed people.

Although TikTok was originally created as a harmless source of entertainment, it is now criticized for its harmful effects, especially on younger users. Numerous legal claims against several social media companies seek compensation for the harm these platforms are causing users.

If you have questions about filing a TikTok lawsuit, the team at Dolman Law Group can explain more about your legal rights.

<iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RSzMX4MfXp4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="TikTok Banned in Florida Schools Ahead of New School Year, Featuring Matt Dolman"></iframe>

Understanding TikTok Addiction and Social Media Claims

Social Media Addiction

TikTok, the powerhouse of short-form video content, has become a cultural staple with over a billion active users worldwide. While users showcase their talents, humor, and creativity through bite-sized videos, the platform's design creates a troubling reality that has sparked concern among parents and launched a flurry of TikTok-related legal actions.

In recent years, a steady flow of lawsuits has inundated TikTok, alleging various harm, particularly targeting adolescents. These legal battles spotlight the dangers hidden in the platform, ranging from fostering addiction to worsening mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Tragically, reports of self-harm or suicide among the most vulnerable users have also been linked to TikTok usage.

If you are a parent, these concerning reports must be taken seriously. Most parents are concerned, if not outright fearful, for their child's well-being. At Dolman Law Group, we recognize the urgency of addressing TikTok addiction and its associated legal implications. Our dedicated team of attorneys stands ready to fight for families affected by the calculated effects of social media addiction and related injuries.

When you partner with the social media lawyers at Dolman Law Group, we can work together to create a solid legal claim for the injuries you or your child have experienced due to TikTok or other social media use. Reach out today for a no-obligation, free consultation to learn more.

Who's at Risk? Understanding TikTok's Impact

Research has revealed that teenagers and young women are the most vulnerable to TikTok's potential harm. Recent data shows that the platform's negative aspects, including poor body image and unrealistic expectations, affect these groups the most. Many pending TikTok lawsuits are brought on behalf of these two user types.

Studies reveal that teens spend about four hours daily on social media, with TikTok being a top choice for the younger generation. The platform's trendy challenges and the quest for likes often lead to excessive screen time and a higher risk of addiction.

For young women, TikTok can be both a platform for expression and a source of pressure. While it allows creativity, it also promotes false beauty standards. TikTok's algorithms often prioritize content that emphasizes these ideals, which means girls are repeatedly exposed to unrealistic body image content at the top of their TikTok feed. This creates a bigger risk that young women will feel inadequate and struggle with self-esteem and body image.

The compassionate team of social media youth harm lawyers at Dolman Law Group understands these risks. We are dedicated to helping protect these children's mental health and hold social media companies accountable for creating harmful online environments.

What Injuries Are Younger TikTok Users Facing? 

Social Media Causing Anxiety and Depression in Young

TikTok isn't just about fun and games anymore. It's evolved into a digital realm where young users, especially adolescents and teenagers, face various risks. Recent studies shed light on how vulnerable young users are in the world of social media, with TikTok standing out as a major concern.

Research indicates that adolescents are easily influenced by social media tactics, often spending excessive time on these platforms. TikTok's algorithm, designed to show content based on individual interests, worsens this by encouraging continuous scrolling and watching.

The most common injuries and harm that have been linked to social media use include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Eating disorders
  • Self-harm
  • Suicide thoughts and actions
  • Social withdrawal

Ongoing research is looking into whether social media addiction can lead to societal harm, such as mass shootings or other third-person dangers. The full extent of social media harm is now becoming more clear and more frightening.

Understanding TikTok's Visual Impact: The Potential for Harm

TikTok's heavy reliance on visual content can magnify the influence of harmful images and messages, posing a serious risk to the mental and emotional health of young users.

Adolescents, in particular, are vulnerable to the portrayal of idealized body types, glorified substance use, and risky behaviors on the platform, which can contribute to conditions like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

The pursuit of likes and validation on TikTok can intensify feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt among impressionable minds.

Tragically, the repercussions of TikTok's influence can extend beyond emotional distress to more devastating outcomes, such as self-harm and suicide. Disturbing trends have emerged where vulnerable users, overwhelmed by social media pressures, feel trapped in despair, worsened by the constant judgment online.

Countless news reports highlight teenagers whose lives were profoundly damaged by TikTok, highlighting the pressing need for awareness and accountability. TikTok addiction is a serious and real problem. To learn more about your potential right to recover compensation from TikTok or other social media companies, call the legal professionals at Dolman Law Group today.

Schedule A Free Consultation

What Are the Common Allegations in TikTok Social Media Lawsuits?

Social Media Lawsuits

Pending personal injury lawsuits filed against TikTok claim the platform has systemic problems, specifically that the platform's algorithms continuously place dangerous content that promotes harmful behaviors and perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards at the top of users’ feeds. These algorithms target vulnerable users and create an increased risk of psychological and physical harm.

Many plaintiffs allege that TikTok has failed to address these issues properly and modify the platform’s design to avoid these dangers. Overall, TikTok’s actions or failure to act constitute negligence and a breach of duty to its vulnerable users, especially young women and teens, by failing to take necessary steps to protect users.

How TikTok Could Be Held Responsible for Teenage Users’ Harm

Understanding why TikTok might be liable for the harm it causes young users involves dissecting some legal concepts. Here's a basic overview of why TikTok might be accountable:

Negligence

This legal concept means failing to take reasonable care and causing harm. If TikTok doesn't do enough to keep users safe from known risks, like harmful content or addictive features, it could be negligent. For example, TikTok might be considered negligent if it promotes harmful content without proper warnings, especially to young users.

Product Liability

This legal theory holds companies responsible for putting defective products in consumers' hands. While usually related to physical items, it can also apply to digital products too. If TikTok's design or features lead to harm, it could be found liable under a product liability argument.

Fraudulent Misrepresentation 

This happens when a company lies or hides facts to deceive consumers, causing harm. If TikTok lied about its safety to attract users while hiding risks, it might be guilty of fraudulent behavior. For instance, if TikTok says it's completely safe despite evidence otherwise, it could be responsible for users’ injuries.

Violation of Consumer Protection Laws

These laws protect people from unfair business practices. If TikTok deceives users about its risks, it could break consumer protection laws. This might include false advertising or not telling users, especially minors, about the dangers of the platform.

What Are Your Options for Financial Recovery?

Dolman Law TikTok Lawsuit Lawyers Team standing and sitting behind large table

If you or your child has suffered harm from using TikTok, Dolman Law Group is here to help seek compensation for your legal damages. Our legal team is dedicated to helping injured social media users secure financial restitution. If you are affected by social media-related injuries, including various economic and non-economic losses, we can help.

Some of the most common damages we fight for include:

  • Medical Expenses: Dolman Law Group can help you recover compensation for medical expenses stemming from TikTok-related injuries. This includes costs for therapy, counseling, medication, hospitalization, and other essential treatments aimed at addressing both physical and mental health issues.
  • Mental Anguish and Emotional Distress: Our attorneys are experienced in recouping compensation for the mental anguish and emotional distress inflicted by TikTok addiction and related injuries. We understand the profound psychological toll of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal ideation, and we work diligently to ensure our clients receive adequate compensation for their suffering.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: We are committed to securing compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life experienced by users facing TikTok-related injuries. We recognize the significance of not being able to engage in once-beloved activities and hobbies, and we strive to ensure our clients receive fair restitution for these losses.
  • Wrongful Death: In cases of wrongful death resulting from TikTok use, our firm provides compassionate support to surviving family members seeking compensation. We pursue damages for the loss of financial support, companionship, and consortium, as well as funeral and burial expenses incurred due to the untimely loss of a loved one.
  • Punitive Damages: In select cases, Dolman Law Group can aggressively pursue punitive damages to hold TikTok accountable for its misconduct and deter future wrongdoing. We leverage our legal experience to seek maximum compensation for our clients and send a clear message that negligent behavior will not be tolerated.

What is Your TikTok Lawsuit Worth? 

The value of your social media harm lawsuit depends on various factors, including the specifics of your case and the laws in your jurisdiction. Dolman Law Group offers personalized legal guidance to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for the harm caused by TikTok use.

Contact Dolman Law Group today for a free consultation with our experienced attorneys. We'll assess your case, answer your questions, and provide tailored assistance to ensure you receive the financial restitution you're entitled to.

How Dolman Law Group Can Assist You in Filing a TikTok Lawsuit

Matthew Dolman, TikTok Lawsuit Lawyer

Navigating the legal landscape of a TikTok lawsuit can be overwhelming, but with the support of a dedicated social media lawyer from Dolman Law Group, you can face this process with confidence. Our seasoned attorneys possess the skills, resources, and dedication needed to advocate effectively on your behalf and pursue the justice you deserve. Specifically, when you partner with our social media harm team, we provide these services:

A skilled social media lawyer from Dolman Law Group will provide comprehensive guidance and representation throughout your case. From the initial consultation to the resolution, we'll assess the strengths of your claim, advise you on your legal rights and options, and craft a strategic plan tailored to your specific situation. With us by your side, you can trust that your best interests will be fiercely advocated for at every step of the legal process.

Investigative Resources 

Social media lawsuits often require a thorough investigation to uncover evidence of negligence or wrongdoing by platforms like TikTok. The team at Dolman Law Group has access to a network of investigative resources, including forensic experts and data analysts, to gather crucial evidence to bolster your case. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice, meticulously examining digital trails to uncover the truth and strengthen your claim.

Negotiation and Settlement

Many TikTok lawsuits are resolved through negotiation and settlement outside of court. With our negotiation skills and legal acumen, we'll work tirelessly to pursue a favorable outcome on your behalf. We'll engage in constructive dialogue with opposing parties, advocating for fair compensation that reflects the full extent of your damages. If a settlement cannot be reached, we're prepared to litigate your case in court, ensuring your rights are vigorously defended before a judge and jury.

Compassionate Support

Beyond our legal expertise, the team at Dolman Law Group offers compassionate support and understanding during what can be a challenging and emotional process. We'll listen to your concerns, provide reassurance and guidance, and stand by your side as a trusted ally throughout your legal journey. With our unwavering support, you can feel confident knowing you have a dedicated advocate fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Entrusting your TikTok lawsuit to the experienced lawyers at Dolman Law Group ensures that you'll have the guidance, resources, and support you need to navigate the complexities of litigation. With our commitment to your case, we'll tirelessly advocate for your rights and work towards achieving the most favorable outcome possible.

Your TikTok social media lawsuit is unique, and you deserve personalized legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances. At Dolman Law Group, we focus on open and ongoing client communication, and we will answer all your questions to clearly explain your legal options and potential strategies. Throughout our ongoing partnership, you will be empowered to make the most informed decisions and actively participate in your TikTok claim.

TikTok Lawsuit Lawyers at Doman Law Group

Trust Dolman Law Group To Protect Your Rights Throughout Your Social Media TikTok Lawsuit

The skilled social media legal team at Dolman Law Group is dedicated to helping injured people seek the compensation they deserve by negotiating a personal injury settlement or bringing a TikTok lawsuit. If any of the social media companies harmed you or a loved one, you may have the right to bring an injury claim and lawsuit to recoup your financial losses. 

Call 833-552-7274 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation today. Don’t wait to start protecting your loved ones from the dangers of social media. Reach out to learn more now.

 

Matthew Dolman

Personal Injury Lawyer

This article was written and reviewed by Matthew Dolman. Matt has been a practicing civil trial, personal injury, products liability, and mass tort lawyer since 2004. He has successfully fought for more than 11,000 injured clients and acted as lead counsel in more than 1,000 lawsuits. Always on the cutting edge of personal injury law, Matt is actively engaged in complex legal matters, including Suboxone, AFFF, and Ozempic lawsuits.  Matt is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for resolving individual cases in excess of $1 million and $2 million, respectively. He has also been selected by his colleagues as a Florida Superlawyer and as a member of Florida’s Legal Elite on multiple occasions. Further, Matt has been quoted in the media numerous times and is a sought-after speaker on a variety of legal issues and topics.

Learn More