My car was hit in a parking lot. Am I required to get it fixed in order to

[Crystal D]

collect the money for damages? My neighbor hit my car and doesn't want to go through insurance. She scraped my bumper and bent my fender a little. After giving her the quoted amount of $950 she told me to get it fixed and then she would take care of it. This isn’t how it works is it? What should I do? Even if she gave me money I am not required to get it fixed am I? Also, If I am to fix it I need the money up front or something set up ahead of time. I will also need to have a rental car and I am not sure she is taking that into account. I don’t want to risk being stuck with the bill if something happens and she doesn’t or can’t pay.

 

[jtexas]

No, you don't have to fix it.

Your car is worth $950 less now than it was before she hit it. After she gives you the money, you'll be in the same position (economically) as before. Fix the car or don't fix it, your choice.

If you went through insurance, you'd be able to make that same choice.

What if they find more damage after they take your bumper off? What if it takes longer than you thought, and you have to pay more for rental car?

What she's asking is a big, big favor. I wouldn't do it except for a very good friend. Were I you, I'd have already called her insurance agent.