Ohio Law on Your Side
Ohio Revised Code
O.R.C. § 2315.33 — Comparative Fault
Ohio's modified comparative fault rule means you can still recover damages in Garfield Heights even if you were partially at fault — as long as you are less than 51% responsible. Insurance companies routinely inflate your fault percentage to reduce their payout. We fight back.
Ohio Revised Code
O.R.C. § 2305.10 — Statute of Limitations
Ohio gives you two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Garfield Heights, waiting too long can mean losing your right to compensation forever — and evidence disappears quickly. Contact us as soon as possible.
Ohio Revised Code
O.R.C. § 3937.18 — Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Ohio law requires insurers to offer UM/UIM coverage. If you were hit by an uninsured driver, your own policy may still provide a meaningful recovery path. We help clients navigate these claims every day.
Local Court Information
Auto accident cases in Garfield Heights are filed in one of two courts depending on the claim amount. Our attorneys have extensive experience in both venues and know the local judges, procedures, and how insurance companies operate in this jurisdiction.
Municipal Court
Garfield Heights Municipal Court ↗5555 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, OH 44125
Civil claims up to $15,000; geographic jurisdiction includes Garfield Heights, Independence, Maple Heights, Brecksville, Cuyahoga Heights, Newburgh Heights, Valley View, and Walton Hills
Common Pleas Court
Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas ↗1200 Ontario Street, Cleveland, OH 44113
Claims exceeding municipal court jurisdiction · General Division
Getting Your Crash Report in Garfield Heights
The police crash report is one of the most critical pieces of evidence in any auto accident claim. Here is how to obtain it in Garfield Heights and what Ohio law says about your right to access it.
Ohio Revised Code § 149.43
Ohio Public Records Act — Your Right to Crash Reports
Under Ohio's Public Records Act (R.C. § 149.43), police crash reports are public records. Any person may request them. Agencies must respond promptly and may charge only the actual cost of copies.
Garfield Heights Police Department — Crash Reports
Garfield Heights Police Department
5555 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, OH 44125
Records Unit: (216) 475-4551
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
Ohio State Highway Patrol — Highway Crashes
OSHP Garfield Heights Post
Handles crashes on state highways and interstates within Garfield Heights
Phone: (216) 447-2677
OSHP Crash Report Request Form ↗Ohio Department of Transportation
ODOT Online Crash Report Portal
Available 3–5 business days after the crash.
Ohio Crash Portal ↗Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
BMV Crash Report (SR-1 Form)
Required within 6 days if damage exceeds $1,000 and police were not called (R.C. § 4509.06).
BMV SR-1 Crash Report ↗Recent Articles — Garfield Heights
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