Not sure about the laws in your state, but in Ontario, Canada the police must be notified of accidents.

It's the law.

Duty to report an accident

Ontario Highway Traffic Act Part XIV, section 199

section 199.6 explains that

failure to notify

is an offence possible $400 - 20, 000 fine

The driver using the excuse I have to go to work is bogus. (it's still leaving the scene of an accident.)

this person could have a multitude of reasons for taking off from the scene that the police would like to investigate.

inebriated? currently in possesion of stolen property or illicit drugs, parole violation?, not abiding by certain driving restrictions ie. not wearing prescriptions eyeware when needed.

the accident took place in a parking lot, (at a mall?), not truly a "public space" , most often considered private property. if I owned that property I would expect my customers to abide by the law.

just some thoughts to consider.

I hope your car gets fixed good and proper and in good time. They may need to rent you a car for a while. keep us informed.