Auto Insurance Claims: my car was hit in a parking lot - should I make a claim w/my own company?, preferred repair shops, policy premiums

Question
hello,

my car was hit in a private parking lot at work in Virginia.  I was unaware until I went to drive home.  Evidently the person who hit my car hit four other cars as well and may not have enough insurance to cover all claims.

The bumper, bumper supports, grill, trim, and headlights need to be replaced on my almost 3 year old Acura.  I have been told by the insurance company of the driver that hit me that it may take many weeks to resolve the claims of the other cars that were totaled and to spit the coverage to all of the victims.  They said the other parties are making claims through their insurance companies to expedite resolutions.  The driver who hit the cars was driving their child's car, and they may have additional coverage under their own insurance policy (which is w/a different company).

I let my company know what happened to go on record.  However, I have held off making a claim w/my company in the interim, hoping that I would not need too.  I don't want this to count against my claims history w/my company. At this point, I am not concerned about needing a rental car for another week or two.

Questions:

One
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Is it reasonable for the insurance company of the driver's son's car to say that it could take 5 or 6 more weeks to settle and pay out to victims since some cars were totaled?

Two
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Should I make a claim to my company until things are settled?

Three
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Do I have to accept reconditioned or OEM alternate parts or have to pay the difference?

Four
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How can this impact my insurance policy & premiums, etc.?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Michael,
I recommend that you go ahead and have your own company repair your car, since it appears that they will eventually be paying a portion of the cost.
When dealing with your own company, if you use one of their preferred repair shops, they will usually guarantee the work for as long as you own the car.
Your company will be allowed to use reconditioned and non-OEM parts to repair the car.  When the car is being repaired by your own company, most states allow you to inspect the car before accepting delivery from the repair shop and you have the right to refuse delivery if you find flaws in the repair.  The chrome areas are the location of most flaws because those parts have been straightened and re-chromed.  Also, carefully check the painted areas for proper 'blending' and no runs or drips.
As I understand the insurance laws of Virginia, your company can increase your rate for any claim, even a comprehensive loss.  The law seems to allow them a lot of discretion on when to apply an increase.
You should discuss your situation with your agent.
It's not unusual for it to take 6 or more weeks to resolve a settlement price for a totaled car.  The insurance company is going to offer the lowest amount possible and the owner will secure documentation that the car is worth more and there will be extended negotiations to arrive at an agreement.
I hope you find this information to be of help.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area