[john]

In my experiences, I was able to keep the money and have it fixed at my own shop of choice. Then, I would buy all used parts, do what I can, and pocket some money after the body shop finishes it. I have never had that much damage done to my car though and it was never my fault. The most recent was when I was rearended in my 86 accord. the car had already been rearended 2 times prior (me having fixed the work when it was my moms car). The insurance quote to fix was $1000 at lehmans. I took the money and ran. $20 later (bondo) the car looked fine. Good to hear they didn't total it though.