The officer at the scene advised me to only file a claim against Car 3's insurance, as filing with my insurance will be a "ding" on my record and will increase my rates. (I asked his advice since I have not been in an accident before) I want to avoid a rate increase as this was not my fault, and I'm probably going to have to buy a beater car since I still owe some on my totaled car, and I can't imagine that what's left over from the insurance check will be enough to get a car anything like what I had that is now totaled. It's absolutely going to be a net loss for me, unfortunately.

I had no idea that 30-45 days was typical - I don't understand how it can take that long when the police have already determined liability. I suppose I'll just keep the rental for that long and hope that they reimburse me for it sooner than later.

Thanks for your response.