Who do i sue, how long will it take, can i call witnesses, do i need an attorney?

on jan 7 2011 i was involved in an auto accident and the persons insurance deined the claim b/c of where damage was on the vehicle but the police report was in my favor. we want to go to small claims court. the claim is worth 1500-2500. who do we sue (the company or the guy that hit me)? can we call witnesses? how long will it take from begining to end? and do we need an attorney?