I have never had a problem collecting the check and doing the repairs myself.
In Massachussetts if you have lien on the vehicle they will only make the check payable to the body shop. But if you own the vehicle outright they will give the same amount to you. I just replaced my front bumper on my Toyota myself after it was hit it a parking lot. I saved the entire $500 deductable.
As far as your accident they should pay the full amount. If there is cash to pay the party at fault should cover it
