Dealing with an auto claim outside of insurance?

Report the accident to your insurance company and have them file the claim against the other driver. You run the risk of getting screwed big time if you try to handle this without notifying your insurer. The insurance company will most likely pay the body shop directly. The whole process of getting your vehicle repaired will be a lot smoother if you get the insurance company involved. They can arrange your rental and help you determine where to take it for repairs.