Liability in backing into a car

[johnnyss]

my wife backed her conversion van (it was the ladder) into my sister-in-law's boyfriends car (it was dark and raining). his car was not in a parking spot-it was parked along the grass perpendicular to the sidewalk leading to the house. wasnt there before, so she had no idea. anyway, she apologized and promised to take care of the dented door. that was back in april. he just now gave an estimate from the autobody for 1700. i called the ins. co and was told we cannot make a claim from an accident that was never reported so many months ago.ok fine, we will deal with this. my question is- what am i legally obligated to pay? just the repair to the door? or can he claim he needs a rental car and other expenses?
thanks

[seniorjudge]

Q: my question is- what am i legally obligated to pay?

A: Your wife is obligated to pay 100% of his direct and actual damages because she is 100% at fault. (Rental car costs, inconvenience, lowered self-esteem, drycleaning, dog grooming, whatever, etc. are not direct and actual damages and you are not liable for them.)

[moburkes]

I don't know what state you're in, but you should be able to file that claim. Did she call the agent, or the claims department?