who do you claim from?

NEVER_MADE_A_CLAIM_BEFORE

Hi, Im embarrassed more than anything re my question, but I dont know the answer and have never made any claim for anything before. A vehicle accident occured in our road, 5 doors down. One back wheel came right off the car that caused the damage, proceeded to come up road approx yards and actually smacked against our fencing, breaking concrete posts and panels. Police are involved as there are 3 parked vehicles that were badly damaged by the car to blame. The car driver legged it, but was found sitting in an alleyway where he admitted he didnt have a licence. The car apparently is owned and insured 3rd party by his father - confirmed and details given by Police to us - but not confirmed if he knew it had been taken or driven by an unlicensed son at that time.
Now the Police Officer told us to claim against our insurer (Tesco) and that they would claim against the 3rd party insurers. Rang Tesco on Bank hol Monday. Gave details and they have said we would be liable for the excess, and yes it would remain on our records as a claim.
I find the logic in that okay. But, what do we do, telephone the 3rd party insurers and inform them we will be claiming against the car owners insurance? is this the right procedure that we have to follow? do we obviously get the fencing professionally checked out for any further damage there may be, thinking fractures in other concrete posts and more wood damage?
Once a quote and confirmation of all damage is given to us by fencing company, can we go ahead and get the work done, do we wait for anyone to say yes??
If the 3rd party insurers dont agree do we then use the info, crime number etc and sure for the outstanding amount in county court. Presumebly the owner and insured of the vehicle, or is it him and the uninsured unlicensed driver - his son.
Very worried, cant afford to get the fence repaired at once using our own funds, its one of those that cant be bought off the shelf but has to be made up due to sizing etc.
Please help.

Quentin

Contact the third party insurer and ask to speak to their innocent third party claims department.

If they are happy to deal with your claim let them as you will have no excess to pay.

If they won't play ball then use your own insurance, pay the excess and pursue the third party insurer to reimburse you