It's a good thing you didn't call the police. They can't/won't do anything when it's on private property (parking lots). Hound your insurance company, ask a lot of questions, and be honest of what happened. From what you wrote, you did nothing wrong. Some insurance companies will try to get out of paying, no matter who's fault it is. Depending on how old you are, and how many claims you have made, will depend on how much your insurance will go up. Besides, I don't think insurance companies should raise premiums if it's not that persons fault. It's unfair, but this is a money grabbing/gouging world. Go get a few estimates on how much it will cost to fix your car. More than the one estimate you got. That's what they made me do.
If the insurance adjuster seems as though he/she is not doing their job, then I would get an accident lawyer and see what your rights are on private property accidents with no injuries. Most lawyers will do a free consult.
Good luck.

PS: Do you have collision on your insurance? If not, then they will not pay. It comes straight out of your pocket and there's nothing you can do.

Gas at my corner station is $2.75 right now & it fluctuates often. My 2 bedroom condo electric bill runs $75 & my a/c is always on. Basic telephone (land line) is $30. Everything else is done through my condo fee. Insurance, both car & house is so expensive it is going to shock you. Hurricane coverage is mandatory in many areas.

l took a work transfer to Florida 10 years ago. The tough part was deciding to go, after that everything falls into place.

1) First of all, I am not sure you should let your uncle buy you a car since he is attaching so many stipulations. You also don't want it to be something he holds against you over your head for the rest of your life.

2) I never recommend buying a new car because of depreciation and the additional cost in finance interest. Get yourself a good used Toyota. Hondas are good too but tend to cost more on the used market. Nissans can even be good. There are plenty of parts availabe out there for those brands and you can learn to do simple maintenance on your own. More importantly, these cars can go for many miles with minimal maintenance. Changing plugs, oil changes, battery servicing are all things you can do. All you need is a set of simple tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.), a Haynes or Chilton repair manual and time. Although I buy a lot of things at Autozone (plugs, oil), I try to use factory parts when I can. Just be sure to go online and find a place to buy parts because online dealers are usually cheaper than paying retail at your local dealter. I go to Autozone because they tend to be very informative and I really like their rewards program.

3) Try to find a remote area, like a business office area and use it to practice your skills on weekends, holidays and evenings after rush hour. The more you practice, the better you'll get. If you can afford it, take a defensive driver course as well.

4) For used car values, vehix.com is a good place to start.

Good luck. You are wise to consider all these things. I think you have a good head on your shoulders and should do fine.

Another option is to try to use equity from her home, if she owns it to consolidate the loan for a longer term or even looking for a longer term(probably higher rate) car loan.

Going with the idea of totaling it for the insurance money.

First, very very high chance she'll get caught and you would most likely be named an accomplice.

Second, She's going to pay much higher insurance premiums for most likely the next 5 years. Quite costly.

Third, It's morally wrong. Your momma should've taught you both better to even consider it.