Auto Insurance Claims: Can other insur.co demand repair site?, vehicle repairs

Question
Hi: Our car was hit in rear end while stopped in public parking lot. We've been told by the other parties insur. co. we will have to take the car for the estimate and repairs to a facility of their choice. Is this true, and does it make any difference that the accident occured in TX?
Thank you,
John R.

Answer
John,

  The insurance company cannot make you have your vehicle repaired where they want.  It is your choice.  In fact, it is illegal for the insurance company to even attempt to do that.  They can suggest a shop, but they cannot force you to use any particular shop.