Hi XXXXXXXXXXXXXX:
whether to bring a "friend" into court is a personal decision, but if someone wrecks your vehicle, they are obligated to reimburse to you up to the value of the vehicle. Small claims was made for exactly this sort of situation, so use your best judgment. Frankly, in my opinion, there is both a moral and legal obligation to compensate someone for your negligence, so if they fail to do what is right and meet that moral and legal obligation, the courts are there to compel them to do right. Best of luck.
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Hi tigerbabie177:
that's a personal decision; it's always nice to have an attorney on hand, but the cost may outweigh the expense. If they have an attorney helping them out, consider paying an attorney for 45 minutes of his/her time to make the initial contact and write a letter offering settlement (to let them know that you're serious); the response to those communications will probably tell you if further services will be needed.
Attorney
California attorney experienced in family, probate, criminal, and personal injury law.