Auto Insurance Claims: Parking Lot Accident, Should I file, parking lot accident, report stating that

Question
About 5 months ago, my car was struck while parked at the local playground.  The other driver left me a note and his car remained parked next to mine.  I called the local police and they came out to write up the report.  While the officer was writing the report, the other driver showed up and admitted he was at fault.  The officer took pictures of both cars and indicated that the other driver was at fault.  I obtained the other drivers license and insurance information and attempted to resolve this without a claim.  I obtained a written estimate for damages amounting to approximately $1,200.  The other driver told me to just file a claim with his insurance company.  After numerous attempts, we discovered that the other drivers insurance had expired a few months back and his license tag was also expired.  I attempted to resolve with my laywer but was not successful.  At this time, I need to resolve this as my car is a leased vehicle which I must turn in by January.  My collision deductible is $500.  If I file a claim with my insurance company, will I be penalized for not informing them immediately?  Also, as I have a police report stating that I was not at fault, will I be penalized for filing this claim, by having my rates increased?  What should I do?  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Jose,

You should contact your state attorney to see if there would be any charges against the at-fault person for not having insurance at the time of the accident.  That might be just what is needed to get him to come up with some cash.

You should go ahead and put in a claim with your insurance company to get the car repaired. As long as you have a police report that shows it was not your fault, you should not be penalized by your insurer.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh