I had a truck pull out in front of me a couple years back. Police took his side while I was on my way to the hospital. I went out the next day took measurements and pictures and showed the guy was full of s*** and he paid for my bike my medical and new helmet and a new jacket. So it is worth a try. But if you did not get a police report. Your probably out of luck. They will take her word over yours. Because Thai people never lie.
Yep, I am sure their wife and kids will not miss them. A lot of people turn to these services because they have no choice. After covid many will not have the $ in the bank to satisfy immigration. I am sure you pay for all your speeding or traffic tickets direct to the police station and have never slipped a couple hundred baht to the officer writing your ticket. Really no different.
And is remotely possible that that could affect your future of the obtaining an education Visa. But that's also highly unlikely. But explaining yourself and your situation to the school is probably your best option.