Schnader’s Schaerf Speaks at DRI Webconference on Strategies and Tactics in Crane Collapse Cases

Carl J. Schaerf, a partner in Schnader’s New York office, was a speaker for a webconference sponsored by the Defense Research Institute’s Product Liability Committee titled “The Sky Is Falling – Crane Collapse from Investigation to Trial,” on October 14, 2008. The session was designed to help litigators understand the recent increase in crane collapse cases, how state and local governments have responded to the crisis, and the reaction of the crane and construction industry to new regulations. The forum also included a discussion of whether OSHA preempts state and local regulations, and if there is a need for new regulation in the industry. Participants gained insight on how to deal with an accident investigation, what action(s) counsel needs to take in preparing the case for trial, and effective trial techniques for dealing with the recent spate of collapses. Mr. Schaerf specializes in product liability, commercial and antitrust litigation. He is an active member of DRI, and serves on the Steering Committee for DRI’s Cranes and Derricks Committee. He is also a member of the International Association of Defense Counsel. More information about the seminar can be found at DRI’s website.