I live in California.  5 months ago while leaving someone's home late
night I backed into some one's car parked outside, and hit the rear
door.  Took a look at it, it seemed to be a very small dent.  Owner
told me not worry about it and it was agreed not to report the accident
to insurance companies.  No police report was filed as well.  Owner at
the time did not even asked for my phone number.  He did say that he
will contact me shortly with a estimate.  As agreed I did not report
the accident to my insurance company.  5 months went by and out of the
blue the owner called and demanded $1700.  When I asked the owner of
the other vehicle to send me 3 estimates, he said he does not have time
for that.  In 5 months he was able to only get this one and he is
sticking with it, still not willing to even send me that one.  Then he
said I will also have to cover his rental costs.  I feel the owner is
sticking me the bill for more than the actual damage 5 months ago,
which at the time did not seem much.  Plus he is not willing to send me
the estimate.  He just wants a check.  I want to pay for the damage I
caused but I feel like the person is hiding something from me.  Who
knows what else he will throw my way even if I do send him the check.
Is it too late to report it to my insurance company, and let them take
care of things?  What are my options?  Me and owner have just each
other phone numbers and liscense plate numbers, no Insurance stuff was
exchanged as it was agreed to keep things out of that.  All advice is
appreciated.  Thanks.