Legal Question in Personal Injury in California

Your chances aren't as bad as you think. If they sue you, your liability insurance will cover it. And you have nothing to lose by taking them to court (small claims if under $7500). Watch out for legal time limits.

I would start by politely asking them to submit a claim to their homeowners insurance. If they balk or refuse, then I'd follow Mr. Stone's advice.

I would make a claim under the parents homeowners policy.

I disagree. If I were you, I would leave this sleeping dog lie. By filing suit, you could cause a lawsuit to be filed against you. The police officer's conclusion prove's nothing. He did not withness the incident. You do have something to lose. If they sue you, your rates will go up, even if you eventually win. And if your policy limits are exceeded, you will have to pay the diffeence. And who, exactly are you going to sue?, an 8 year old? Even should you win, how are you going to collect anything? In order to sue the parents, you will have to show that the child was under their control at the time of the accident. In my opinion, it would be very foolish to pursue this action, you are asking for trouble.