Caprice 9C1

Hi, I have a 2001 Impala with the 9C3 package. I recently had a left rear axle break, and was curious, can anyone tell me exactly what kind of rear end does this car have. Is it a full rear, independant axles, etc.
Is there anywhere I can get detailed specs on it, as far as fixing or replacing it?
Has anyone experienced or heard of any problems with rear axle failure(s) on the Impala.
Thanks in advance, any and all responses appreciated.

HP15

The car is front wheel drive so that means the rear is multi link with stabilizer bar and independent coilsprings.

do you have any pictures because I'm not sure what happend.

Caprice 9C1

Here are a couple of pics, I do have more. I struck a LARGE pothole, road depression HARD! An immediate check didn't yield any obvious damage. Approximately 15 minutes later the car veered sharply to the left and I impacted metal cables which are in the median to prevent crossover. As you can see, the impact from the pothole actually pushed up the spare tire well, and apparently bent at least one of the wheel arms.
There weren't any injuries or anything, I'm just trying to figure things out as I'm trying to avoid turning in an insurance claim due to an earlier accident my son had.
What would possibly have been damaged that would cause the wheel to physically come out and make the car turn to the left?
Thanks.
Dave