How long to report accident?

[spdztr]

Guys,
I got into a minor accident this morning with a kid who was making a left into a plaza and didn't see me coming from the opposite direction, after I had just turned on to the street. I had my foot on my brake as soon as I turned anticipating that he may turn, but he hesitated, I let go of the brake, and then he turned anyway. I tried to swerve away, so it was my front right that wound up hitting the right side of his vehicle, in an almost t-bone way, but because of the angles of the car, luckily it wasn't a direct t-bone.

Anyway, we were both getting to work, and exchanged information, and agreed to not go through insurance.

What can I do to protect myself from this guy not paying? Should I still go to a collision reporting centre? I think he's at fault 100% since he was making the left and I was going straight.

The damage seems like it would cost ~$500-$1000 to fix.

[pipolchap]

You seem like a nice trusting guy so I wouldn't want to see you get burnt.

Get a quote ASAP and give this guy a deadline for the money, perhaps tonite, preferably within 24 hrs after the accident.

If he gives you excuses and does not pay on time, just report it. The centre is open 24/7. Cover your a$$.

[spdztr]

Thanks for the reply. I just don't want the fact that I'm a nice guy, come kicking me in the ass later on.

I found that accidents with damage < $1000 don't need to be reported to the reporting centre. I really don't think the damage would exceed $1000 (I'll post pics tonight), so I don't know if I need to report it to a collision centre.
I will get a quote on my way home tonight though.