Friend Broke My Collarbone And Is Reluctant To Cover Medical Bills

Location: Tennessee

howdy! a couple months ago i was out at a bar with a few friends. at the end of the night we were gathered in front of the establishment (in camera view) and a buddy of mine, without provocation / permission, picked me up, lost balance, and pile drove me into the concrete. there was no rough housing or instigation; he felt excited and compelled to pick me up and isn't a strong person. i was helpless to defend myself and my collarbone snapped instantly. i spent the night in the er. got surgery a couple weeks later and missed about 5 weeks of work (roughly $3.5k wages)

my buddy said he would help with the medical bills (roughly $4k, originally $90k but incredibly thankful for insurance) but has been continually non responsive when messaged and has paid under the amount i requested twice. he tried gaslighting me into the "medical system is fucked and they wont send it to collections if you send a minimal amount" but after 1 year from the injury event in Tennessee, you cannot press charges or file a claim for personal injury, rendering any legal standing to pursue reimbursement impossible.

I know he didn't injury me in malice, but the road to recovery has been excruciating and may leave me with permanent side effects. i do not wish to ruin his life with expensive legal battles and just want to feel made right in this. has anyone navigated anything similar or have any advice to offer? thank you for your time (: