[drcoastline]

I'm an NJ agent not an NY agent but car insurance is basically the same in both states. File a comprehensive claim with your carrier. Yes you will have to pay your deductible but the car will get fixed promptly.

No one can dictate where you take your car for repairs, that is up to you. They can however limit the amount paid. What I mean by that is if estimates are coming in say between $1,000.00 and $1,500.00 and you take your car to a place that charges $2,000.00 they can say we will only pay up to $1,500.00 you pay the balance.

There is no harm in filling a comp claim it does not follow you like collision. Comp is considered no fault and not of your doing. So your rates will not go up and/or you will not be dropped as a result.

By filing the comp claim your carrier will investigate the incident. They will also notify the parking facilities insurance carrier. If it is determined the parking facility has some liability your carrier will subrogate and recover the money paid for damages including your deductible and reimburse you.

Lastly, you have a responsibility to notify your carrier of any incident that may result in a claim timely. Failure to notify them timely could result in denial of your claim.

Did you file a police report? If not do it.