Uninsured motorist coverage doesn't cover property damage claims so that's not an answer.
So you get a judgment against him in small claims court. Wonderful, so how do you collect on it? Doubt he'll show up, so it's a default. What next, file a garnishment action. Good luck.
Small Claims - Sumter County Clerk of the Courts
Forget the neighbor with auto body experience. Just get an estimate from a body shop. See if liable party will pay. If damages exceed your collision deductible, turn in a claim to your insurance company. Premiums go up on claims when it's the insured's fault, not somebody else. Your insurance company will pursue the liable party in a process called subrogation. As part of their action action against the liable party they will include your deductible.