Auto Insurance Claims: no police report/minor damage--- NY state, paint damage, insurance fraud

Question
I was recently involved in a very minor accident on the way to work. My rear bumper was bumped by the other cars driver side quarter panel. There is no damage to my car at all. Not even any scratches. His quarter panel needs to be pushed back in slightly but there is no paint damage,dents or scratches. No police report was filed and we swapped insurance information at the scene. Nobody was injured and we were the only people in our respective vehicles. I don't think it is worth reporting to insurance on his end as the damage was very minimal and I am not planning to report it. If he does report it, without a police report or any clear indication of fault, how would this be sorted out? Thank you very much for your time and help in this matter.

Answer
If the claim is reported, the insurers will each ask the parties to describe what happened.  They will then determine who was at fault and pay the claim accordingly.

I'm guessing you backed into his vehicle based on your description.  If this is the case, your insurer will pay for his damages.

You could offer to pay him out of pocket and avoid reporting.  He could get an estimate at a reputable repairer and you just pay him.  But he will have to agree and he is not required to do so.  Keep in mind you are liable or the full repair, and sometimes they find hidden damage when they start the repair.  You are also liable for the cost of a rental while the car is being repaired.

If he reports, make sure you tell the truth.  Lying to an insurer is insurance fraud and it is a felony.