Auto Insurance Claims: parking lot accident, parking lot accident, chipped paint

Question
I was involved in a very minor parking lot accident. I was reversing and hit a car that was going the wrong way on a one way lane. Who is ultimately at fault? The other party assumes it is my fault for reversing and hitting him, while I think it is his fault for driving the wrong directions (arrows clearly state that only one way is permitted). If damages are mere scratches and chipped paint, is it worth it to report the claim to insurance?

Answer
Hi Thao,

It would likely be considered to be 50/50 liability. He should not have been going the wrong way, but you should have seen him comming.

You should have him get an estimate of the repairs. If the amount is small enough, you may consider offering him 50%. You should tell him that he was going the wrong way and that if it goes through insurance it will likely be denied. If he accepts, you should write up a release form for him to sign indicating that it is payment in full in exchange for you paying 50%.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh