Fender Bender Release Question
Location: California
I backed into a parked car in a parking lot. Bumper damage only, no injuries reported at the scene. I reported it to my insurance and filed the SR-1. We want to pay for the repair ourselves instead of going through insurance.
The body shop gave a verbal estimate of $1,500 to $2,000. Written estimate coming soon.
The driver is not the registered owner. The car is registered to his parents. There was also a passenger who looked like a minor. No injury was reported.
My spouse and I disagree on how to handle the release written below:
Option A: (mine) Wait until the repair is done, get the final invoice, pay the shop directly, and have the owners sign a release for that final amount.
Option B: (husband) Pay the driver the amount on the written estimate before the repair, have him sign a release, and not pay anything more if the final bill is higher.
Who needs to sign the release? The driver, the registered owners, or all of them?
Is a release signed before the repair, based only on the estimate, valid and enforceable in California?
Does a property damage release with the driver or owners affect a possible injury claim from the minor passenger later?
What should the release say so it only covers property damage and makes it clear the matter is settled?
None of our family member went through the car accident so appreciate any advice.
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