[JonDuke]

Let's talk hypothetically for a bit...

Suppose you were parked in a parking lot, and someone reversed into you.
Their car came out flawless, and yours had what you thought was minor bumper damage. Because you guessed it was under $2k, you don't call police, and the offender offers insurance, reg and drivers license, but wants to settle and pay for the damages instead of going through insurance.

You agree, take pics of damage, scene, and their documents, and write up a paper saying she is fully responsible, will pay, and will not take any further action after through insurance. You agree to the same. Both parties sign the paper. You also have multiple 3rd party witnesses on your behalf and know, from the community, the person who hit you and where they live.

Estimate time comes, and the costs turn out to be over $2k. The collision place now won't touch your car until you have a police sticker.

You plan on taking my car to where you bought it in hopes that it'll be cheaper for the offender. (they have been very cooperative with you)

Some questions:

With the first estimate, are you now legally obligated to call the police if the second estimate is lower than $2k?

Also...does insurance have to play a role now that it's over $2k?

And finally...would your insurance be impacted much/at all when it was a parked vehicle and you had no fault in the matter?

Hypothetically speaking, of course.