[ossiblue]

The answers have been given. Handling it yourself means you keep the insurance companies out of it--period. He had significant damage costs so he claimed it and the insurance company did what they all do, they try to split the liability between the parties/carriers.

If your neighbor was a bit more savvy, and still "honest," he could have simply said, "I backed into my neighbors Landcruiser." Period, no elaboration about you backing out also. Don't ask, don't tell. That's water under the bridge, however. Now, it will be between the two insurance carriers and you may be notified that you were considered to be X% at fault and your policy covered you. Your rates may or may not increase.