Toyota Repair: Wheel Bearings Replacement, rear wheel bearings, toyota solara

Question
Hi Ted,
I have a 2001 Toyota Solara V6 hardtop and got rear ended at early 2002, and I didn't notice anything.  However recently there's low tone humming noise coming from my rear when the wheels were spinning (no humming at engine start up, no hole in the exhaust, and the humming didn't stop when my foot is off the accelerator).  My mechanic told me I got damaged rear wheel bearings but he can't tell from which side, and the parts come at $300 a piece plus labor (it come with the hub assembly).  My question is whether or not I need to replace the whole hub assemblies or should I try to locate the wheel bearing only?
Thanks

Answer
As far as I know the bearing is not availble seperately, I very much doubt that both bearings are making noise, if your mechanic can't tell whether it's the right or left try finding one who can, I would get a second opinion anyway, I recommend that you have a Toyota dealer check it and get an estimate in writing, then call your insurance company and present it to them and tell them that this bearing damage may have been caused by the accident and should have been replaced under their coverage, they may fight you on this but it's worth a try.
You didn't tell me how many miles are on the car but there is a possibility, depending of the date of first use and the mileage that the bearing may still be covered under the Toyota factory warranty, so contact the dealer, don't mention anything about the accident to them.