Lots of good advice here. There is no police report . . . not that they would have taken one if you had called. There is no proof that YOU were the one that caused THAT damage. Also, I would find it hard to belive that the damage depicted (though it is difficult to tell with nothing to show scale) would cost that much to repair - I agree that it looks like it can be buffed out.
Are you friends with the guy, do you even know him? If not then tell him to pound sand. He is not going to retain an attorney for that nominal damage as it will cost more than he could ever recover. You don't need an attorney (I can't belive I just said that) because this guy would make a claim against your insurance company. As mentioned above your insurance company will require proof of liability before they pay on any claim.
Given the nominal amount he may sue in small claims. You will then have to represent yourself and neither side can have an attorney. If what you say is true then your defense is the "not me" defense. Make him prove liability and that you caused the damage. Most likely the judge will see the pic and laugh at the other guy. Now . . . if the worse happens and you get a judgment against you for any amount your insurnace company will/should cover that judgment even though they were not present and unable to actively defend the case.
Of course everything depends on your State's law and local rules.
>> DISCLAIIMER <<
No part of the previous text should be considered and it is not intended to be legal advice. The informaiton provided does not create a attorney-client relationship and no attorney-client privilge attaches as a result. The information provided may or may not be in conformity with your State and local laws and is not intented to fully explain the legal rights and liabilities as it applies to your case. You should contact an attorney in your state for legal representation to protect you rights in this matter.
p.s. - Let us know what happens
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