Auto Insurance Claims: I hit someone who is uninsured in Minnesota, own insurance, dumb move

Question
I recently hit someone in Minnesota. I know that the insurance follows the vehicle (if there was any). Her boyfriend was driving her SUV (the one I hit) and she was driving his car (in front of the vehicle I hit). The damage done to her SUV is a dent and scratches roughly 6" x 12" in size plus some minor add'l scratches around this spot on the side of her SUV just past the brake light and roughly above the wheel well. I, having never been in an accident before, wasn't sure the proper procedure to take and unfortunately no pictures were taken and no police were called. (I know now I need to do this - I know, dumb move). We exchanged information and she gave me a bogus excuse why she didn't have insurance with her. She called my insurance company that evening and made a claim before I had a chance to call my own insurance agent! I have Minnesota liability insurance only. I found out that she cancelled her insurance in September 2008. I do not plan on making a claim for my car at all b/c I can fix it myself. It looks like in Minnesota there is a steep fine for leaving the scene - I looked into filing a report after the fact. I am kicking myself for not calling the police and am very frustrated with this. I have been working with the adjustor as well. He has taken pictures and is trying to put the pieces together now. Can I refuse to pay her claim? What options do I have? Should I file a report or is it too late?

Answer
Hi C,

The fact that the other vehicle was uninsured is irrelevant. As you stated, you hit the other vehicle. That means that you are 100% liable for the damage to the other car. Now that the claim has been reported to your insurance company, they will work with the other person and/ or their body shop to get the claim settled. There is nothing else for you to do. There is no need to file a police report at this time.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh