Should I claim or settle privately.?

do you have a photo of the other car? Is the damage to the car the same as in the photo? You should have your Ins. pay for it. your premium will not go up 2,000$ and most states give you a free p on your first offense . Always take a photo of the damage in any accident. I have seen a small dent that did not chip the paint turn into a whole back quarter before the insurance adjuster ever saw it.