Totally normal, but definitely proceed with caution!
Hey there, sorry to hear about your accident. To answer your first question: yes, it is completely normal for the other insurance company to call you that fast. In fact, they usually try to get ahold of you within 24 hours.
The reason they’re being so "helpful" and persistent is that they want to get you on the record before you’ve had a chance to realize you might be hurt. Since you mentioned your back is starting to feel stiff today, that’s a major red flag. Adrenaline hides a lot of pain right after a crash, and soft tissue injuries (like whiplash or back strains) often take a day or two to really flare up.
Here is my best advice for how to handle those calls right now:
- You don't have to give a recorded statement yet: You are under no legal obligation to give the other driver’s insurance company a recorded statement right this second. You can simply tell them, "I'm not prepared to give a statement at this time."
- Get your back checked out first: Since you're feeling stiff, go to a doctor or an urgent care. It’s important for your health, but it’s also important to have a medical record that shows you were feeling pain right after the accident.
- Don't downplay your injuries: If they ask how you are, don't just reflexively say "I'm fine." If you say you're fine on a recorded line today, and then find out next week that you need physical therapy, they will use that recording to try and deny your claim.
- Talk to your own insurance company: Your own adjuster is the one who is actually on your side. Let them know what happened and let them handle the communication with the other guy's carrier for now.
As for getting a lawyer, you don't necessarily need one for a tiny fender bender, but since you are actually feeling physical pain, it might be worth at least a quick phone call. Most personal injury lawyers do free consultations. If you feel like the other insurance company is "strong-arming" you or trying to get you to sign a settlement before you've even seen a doctor, definitely talk to a pro.
Just remember: you’re in the driver's seat here. Don't let them rush you into saying something you'll regret later! Hope you feel better soon.