Auto Insurance Claims: who helps after an accident, insurance co, company money

Question
I was involved in an accident where a car pulled out into 2 lanes of traffic and I hit him.  The police report puts him as the only responsible party.(he was also arrested for driving a company car  with a suspended license)  I immediately called my insurance co and gave them a copy of the police report.  Now, my insurance co wants to take my car 60 miles away to do an evaluation.  I have explained to numerous people who have called that I was not responsible for the accident and have not let them move the car from where it was towed.  Shouldn't my insurance co be going after the responsible party for my car and medical expenses?  And why won't my local office help instead of people 100 miles away?

Answer
Hi Kathy,

In your local office the people there are just agents (sales people) they do not get involved in the claims process. Your insurance company will not pursue the other insurance company until they have paid the claim. So you will have to get the vehicle repaired, have your insurance company pay for it, then they will pursue reimbursement from the other company.  You should not let them move your car 60 miles away.  You need to research and select a local body shop.  Go meet with the shop and authorize them to go pick up your car. Then call your insurance company to inform them of the name and location of the body shop you selected. They may try to sweet talk you into using one of there shops but don't fall for it. Those relationships only exist to save the insurance company money and often at your expense.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh