With the help of dedicated South Dakota mesothelioma lawyers, many victims of asbestos illnesses are fighting back with legal action. Asbestos-related illnesses and deaths are low in South Dakota when compared with more populous states, but the rate is still significant.
If you or a loved one have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in South Dakota, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more.
FREE Financial Compensation Packet
- Info on law firms that will recover your HIGHEST COMPENSATION
- Learn how to get paid in 90 days
- File for your share of $30 billion in trust funds
We are happy to provide assistance to asbestos victims and their families in all South Dakota cities and towns, such as:
Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Brookings, Watertown, Mitchell, Yankton, Pierre, Huron, Spearfish, Vermillion, Brandon, Box Elder, Rapid Valley, Madison, Sturgis, Belle Fourche, Harrisburg, Tea, Dell Rapids, Pine Ridge, Mobridge, Hot Springs, Milbank, Canton, Lead, Hartford, Winner, Dakota Dunes, Blackhawk, Colonial, Pine Hills, North Sioux City, Sisseton, Chamberlain, Redfield, Flandreau, Lennox, North Eagle, Butte, Fort Pierre, North Spearfish, Beresford, Summerset, Custer, Springfield, Elk Point, Rosebud, Webster, Volga, Wagner, Groton, Parkston, Miller, Salem, Eagle Butte, Crooks, Deadwood, Gregory, Freeman, Britton, Clear Lake, Platte, Lemmon, Fort Thompson, Mission, Antelope, Garretson, Gettysburg, Oglala, Baltic, De Smet, Martin, Porcupine, Tyndall, Clark, Parker, Hill City, Ipswich, Wessington Springs, Whitewood, Worthing, Arlington, Manderson-White Horse Creek, Centerville, Piedmont, Wall, Eureka, Ashland Heights, Scotland Lake, Andes, Howard, Alcester, Valley Springs, Marion, Highmore, Parmelee, Viborg, Lower Brule, Philip, Estelline, Faulkton, Edgemont, and more.
South Dakota Asbestos Facts
- South Dakota has seen 486 deaths from asbestos-related issues between 1999 and 2013.
- Ninety-four of those deaths were caused by mesothelioma, and the rest by asbestosis or lung cancer.
- The area of the state with the highest number of asbestos deaths is Minnehaha County and Sioux Falls.
How a South Dakota Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help You
People make claims or file a claim for mesothelioma mainly to get the compensation they are owed from the companies that exposed them to asbestos. An experienced asbestos attorney can help you get that important result.
Mesothelioma lawyers work with clients to seek compensation through one or more of the following:
- Mesothelioma Personal Injury Claim. Mesothelioma is a personal injury when caused by negligent asbestos exposure. Most of these cases end in settlements. Your lawyer will negotiate to get you maximum compensation as soon as possible.
- Asbestos Trust Fund Claim. Asbestos companies that went bankrupt cannot be sued. During bankruptcy, these companies set up trust funds to compensate future claimants. Your lawyer can help you make a successful claim.
- Mesothelioma Wrongful Death Claim. If your loved one died from negligent asbestos exposure, you can file a claim against companies for wrongful death and seek damages.
- VA Benefits Claim. Many veterans were exposed to asbestos during military service. If you have mesothelioma and are a veteran, you could qualify for VA benefits.
Comprehensive Client Support
Our team will handle every step of your legal journey, ensuring you can focus on your health and well-being. You can reach out to us without any cost—our consultations are free, and we are committed to working on a contingency basis. This means we only receive payment if we secure compensation for you, eliminating any upfront financial burden.
Personalized and Accessible Service
Understanding the challenges you face, we make it a priority to meet you at your convenience—wherever and whenever suits you best. This personalized approach ensures you’re supported and informed throughout the process.
By combining expert legal strategies with compassionate client care, our mesothelioma legal team is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for you and your family.
Who Is Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Legal Claim?
Filing a mesothelioma legal claim can seem daunting, but understanding who is eligible can clarify your next steps. Here’s a breakdown of potential plaintiffs:
- Diagnosed Individuals: If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another illness linked to asbestos exposure, you have the right to seek legal action. This applies regardless of when or where the exposure occurred, as long as it can be traced to a source of liability.
- Family Members or Estate Representatives: If a loved one has passed away due to mesothelioma, you might be able to file a claim on their behalf. This option is available to family members or individuals who have been appointed as estate representatives, seeking justice and potential compensation for the deceased’s suffering.
- Survivors Filing Wrongful Death Claims: In the unfortunate event of a loved one’s passing from mesothelioma, survivors might also pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of claim addresses the financial impact and emotional distress suffered by the family due to the loss.
Important Considerations
It’s critical to consult with legal professionals who specialize in asbestos litigation to understand the full range of options and ensure timely filing. Each case is unique, and state laws can vary, influencing how claims should be pursued.
Understanding your eligibility empowers you to take the necessary legal steps toward accountability and compensation for the harm caused by asbestos exposure.
Notable Mesothelioma Settlements in South Dakota
If you’re wondering about mesothelioma settlement outcomes in South Dakota, here are some compelling examples that highlight the compensation awarded to individuals affected by this disease:
- U.S. Army Veteran – Interior, SD: Secured $2.52 million in compensation.
- Laborer & Welder – Huron, SD: Received a settlement amounting to $4.85 million.
- Farmer – Volin, SD: Achieved a settlement of $2.3 million.
Additional Settlements:
- An infantry officer from Hot Springs in the U.S. Army was awarded $2.26 million.
- A railroad worker from Carthage received $1.35 million.
- $1.84 million went to a telephone lineman and splicer in Spearfish.
- An auto mechanic in Bruce was compensated with $2.18 million.
- In Sioux Falls, an auto mechanic secured $1.29 million.
- A U.S. Navy boiler tender in Madison with peritoneal mesothelioma received $1.98 million.
- $2.14 million was awarded to a welder and laborer in Tea.
- A laborer and mechanic in Castlewood obtained $1.17 million in compensation.
- A boiler tender and plumber with pleural mesothelioma in Sioux Falls was awarded $1.67 million.
These settlements reflect the diverse backgrounds and roles of individuals affected by mesothelioma, underscoring the varied occupational exposures and resulting legal outcomes within South Dakota.
Do Clients Need to Travel for a Mesothelioma Claim?
When filing a mesothelioma claim, clients often worry about the necessity of travel. Fortunately, many legal teams have streamlined their processes to minimize this inconvenience.
Convenient Consultations and Meetings
Most experienced mesothelioma attorneys prioritize client comfort by offering to meet wherever is most convenient. Whether it’s in your home or a nearby location of your choice, these lawyers go the extra mile to accommodate your needs.
Handling the Legalities from Afar
With the assistance of modern technology and a dedicated legal team, you can avoid extensive travel. Although certain aspects of the legal process might require some movement, it’s rare. Your attorneys will handle most of the paperwork and interactions on your behalf.
Confidence in Representation
You can rest assured knowing that these firms are well-versed in managing cases efficiently, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being. Trust that they’ll navigate the complexities without necessitating relocation or frequent trips.
What to Look for in a South Dakota Mesothelioma Lawyer
Choosing a lawyer to represent you in a mesothelioma case is an important decision. The right lawyer will give you the best chance of receiving maximum compensation for your illness. Your South Dakota mesothelioma lawyer should stand out from other lawyers in several ways:
- Years of experience working with victims of asbestos exposure
- Proven wins for asbestos and mesothelioma clients
- Major settlements and jury awards
- The backing of a big asbestos law firm with adequate resources to handle complicated cases
- A free initial consultation
- Contingency payment plans
Understanding the Costs of Hiring a South Dakota Mesothelioma Attorney
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of asbestos exposure, worrying about legal fees should be the last thing on your mind. Fortunately, many mesothelioma lawyers in South Dakota operate on a contingency basis. This means:
- No initial or out-of-pocket costs: You won’t need to pay anything upfront.
- Payment only upon successful compensation recovery: The attorney’s fee is contingent on winning your case, ensuring that your financial risk is minimized.
By choosing a lawyer who offers these financial arrangements, you can focus on your recovery while they focus on securing the compensation you deserve.
Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in South Dakota?
South Dakota doesn’t have a lot of heavy industry, the typical worksites that triggered asbestos exposure. However, the state is home to several hydroelectric plants. Some of these facilities were constructed with asbestos materials to manage and protect against heat and fire.
Workers in the construction industry have also been put at risk of asbestos exposure.
Asbestos was used in most building materials for decades. Zonolite, a product made with minerals mined by W.R. Grace, went into many homes and public buildings in South Dakota. The company used minerals contaminated with asbestos for decades.
Some of the specific job sites in South Dakota known to have used asbestos and put workers at risk include:
- AH Bennett Corporation
- Amdak Corporation
- Atomic Energy Commission Plant
- Belle Fourche Landfill
- Big Stone City Power Plant
- Brookings Landfill
- Browns Landfill
- Consolidated Coal Company
- Dakota Midland Hospital
- Ellsworth Air Force Base
- Hald and Fleer
- Healy Plumbing and Heating
- MacArthur Company
- Mitchell Landfill
- Northern States Power Company
- Pathfinder Power Plant
- Pierre Landfill
- Rapid City Air Force Base
- Rapid City Landfill
- Red Ball Warehouse
- Revillo School
- Risager Plumbing and Heating
- Sioux Fall Landfill
- Southern Missouri Landfill
- St. Luke Hospital Power Plant
- Tri-County Landfill
- Vermillion Landfill
- Walworth County Landfill
- Watertown Landfill
- Xcel Energy
- Big Bend Dam
- Fort Randall Dam
- Gavins Point Dam
- Oahe Dam
Military Bases and Asbestos
Both Ellsworth Air Force Base and Rapid City Air Force Base have been associated with asbestos use.
The dangerous minerals were once used in vehicles, planes, facilities, machinery, equipment, walls, plumbing, ceilings, and much more. Most buildings at both bases were created with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
Natural Erionite in South Dakota
South Dakota is home to large natural erionite deposits, a dangerous mineral known to cause mesothelioma. Although erionite is not considered asbestos, its properties are similar. It’s rare for people to develop an asbestos-related disease from erionite from only periodical exposure. Long-term and frequent inhalation or ingestion of erionite fibers is linked with an increased risk for mesothelioma.
Understanding Asbestos and Its Risks
Asbestos, like erionite, is a naturally occurring mineral. It is durable and resistant to heat and electricity, which made it a popular choice in various industries. Over 3,000 household and industrial products once contained asbestos, including:
- Roofing shingles
- Talcum powder
- Automobile brakes
- Insulation and boilers
Exposure to asbestos can occur when its fibers are inhaled or ingested. This can lead to mesothelioma, a cancer that may take 10-50 years to develop after initial exposure.
Historical and Ongoing Exposure Concerns
More than 1 million U.S. Workers were exposed to asbestos during the 20th century, especially in industries like manufacturing, steel working, and shipbuilding. Although most asbestos exposure occurred in the past, materials in older buildings continue to pose risks today.
Erionite is one ongoing risk to residents of South Dakota. In 2022, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology received funding to construct a new mineral industries building. A floor collapse in the original building exposed asbestos, which put workers on the site at risk of exposure.
South Dakota State University also dealt with asbestos issues recently. It demolished Scobey Hall, which had sat empty for several years. Asbestos in the building was a concern and could have potentially exposed students and workers.
Additionally, old asbestos cement water pipes put South Dakota residents at risk of exposure in their drinking water. The city of Kadoka recently replaced aging, deteriorating water pipes made with asbestos cement.
Being aware of these risks and understanding the history of asbestos use can help individuals take necessary precautions to protect their health and well-being.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Mesothelioma from Work-Related Asbestos Exposure
Discovering that you or someone close to you may have mesothelioma caused by workplace asbestos exposure is undoubtedly alarming. Here’s a clear plan of action to guide you:
- Seek Medical Attention: First and foremost, prioritize your health by consulting with a healthcare professional. An accurate diagnosis is crucial.
- Gather Information:
- Compile a detailed history of your occupational exposure to asbestos.
- Include dates, locations, and the nature of tasks performed.
- Collect any documentation or evidence that can support your case, such as employment records or safety reports.
- Consult a Legal Expert:
- Reach out to an attorney specializing in mesothelioma and occupational exposure cases.
- Ensure the attorney is knowledgeable about the specific regulations and legal landscape of your state, such as South Dakota.
- Schedule a Free Consultation:
- Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation. Take advantage of this to understand your options without any financial commitment.
- Discuss your situation thoroughly to assess the viability of your case.
- Understand Your Legal Options:
- Explore different legal pathways, including potential compensation avenues and claims you might be eligible for.
- An experienced lawyer can help navigate the complexities of mesothelioma cases.
- Consider Financial and Emotional Support:
- Look into support groups, both local and virtual, which can provide emotional and practical support.
- Investigate possible financial assistance programs to help manage medical expenses.
Taking these steps can empower you to make informed decisions as you navigate this challenging journey. Remember, timely action can be crucial in ensuring the best possible outcomes for you and your loved ones.
Ongoing Asbestos Exposure Risks in South Dakota
Erionite is one ongoing risk to residents of South Dakota today. Most asbestos exposure occurred in the past, but asbestos materials in older buildings continue to put people at risk.
In 2022 the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology received funding to construct a new mineral industries building. A floor collapse in the original building exposed asbestos, which put workers on the site at risk of exposure.
South Dakota State University also dealt with asbestos issues recently. It demolished Scobey Hall, which had sat empty for several years. Asbestos in the building was a concern and could have potentially exposed students and workers.
Old asbestos cement water pipes put South Dakota residents at risk of exposure in their drinking water. The city of Kadoka recently replaced aging, deteriorating water pipes made with asbestos cement.
South Dakota Asbestos Laws
Asbestos laws in South Dakota include safety regulations to protect current residents and laws that impact how asbestos claims proceed.
Statute of Limitations for Asbestos Cases in South Dakota
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As with other states in the nation, South Dakota has a strict time deadline for filing asbestos-related claims.
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Plaintiffs must file within three years of diagnosis of the asbestos-related illness.
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For wrongful death claims, the plaintiff must file within three years of the victim’s death.
Understanding these time frames is crucial, as they are dictated by statutes of limitations. These legal deadlines define how long you have to file a claim after a mesothelioma diagnosis or a loved one’s death related to asbestos exposure. Missing these deadlines means losing the opportunity to seek justice and compensation for your suffering.
It’s essential to act promptly. If you believe you may have a claim, consider reaching out to a legal professional who can evaluate your situation and help ensure you meet the necessary deadlines. Taking swift action can make a significant difference in your ability to pursue a successful claim.
Asbestos Trust Fund Transparency Act
South Dakota is one of several states that passed an asbestos trust fund transparency law. It requires plaintiffs in asbestos claims to disclose any trust fund claims they have made or plan to make.
This disclosure must include information about the identities of the trusts, the amount of compensation claimed, and the amount of compensation received.
Courts can use this information to reduce a jury award. If you are filing a claim and have also claimed with trusts, you must provide the information within 120 days of the trial.
Asbestos Safety Regulations
The state of South Dakota manages its asbestos removal process through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Waste Management Program.
- South Dakota requires that contractors and inspectors must be certified in order to handle and work around asbestos on public property. Any project that falls within public property requires 10-day written notice prior to the anticipated work.
- Asbestos removal certification, although maintained by the state, is actually done by approved training centers. Once certified, the individuals receive a state certification card, which has to be carried at all times.
- Asbestos materials that are non-friable can be removed by individuals without certification as long as the material encompasses less than three square feet or three linear feet. However, OSHA training is required.
- South Dakota has thirteen authorized asbestos disposal sites. Notification and approval have to be given prior to the disposal of asbestos material.
Mesothelioma Treatment in South Dakota
South Dakota offers three medical facilities that specialize in cancer treatment. For the best results, seek treatment from physicians and clinics experienced with asbestos cancer and asbestos-related diseases.
Since these types of cancers are still considered rare in the medical industry, you’ll need to seek treatment from those who have researched, trained, and understand the complex issues of asbestos-related illnesses:
- Avera Cancer Institute: 100 23rd Street, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, 605-322,3000
- John T. Vucurevich Cancer Care Institute: 353 Fairmont Blvd., Rapid City, SD, 57701, 605-719-2300
- Sanford Cancer Center: 1305 West 18th Street, Sioux Falls, SD, 57717, 605-333-1000
Paul at Mesothelioma Lawyer Center provided outstanding support when my family faced a mesothelioma diagnosis. From the start, his professionalism and genuine care were evident. Paul explained every step of the legal process with patience and empathy.
– Patrick M.
His meticulous attention to detail and expertise ensured our case was handled swiftly and efficiently. What truly impressed us was Paul’s responsiveness—he was always quick to reply and kept us well-informed throughout.
I highly recommend Mesothelioma Lawyer Center.
Legal Help in South Dakota
If you’ve been injured by asbestos, there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers. If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.
References
View All ReferencesHow Much Is a Mesothelioma Claim Worth?
Compensation depends on your diagnosis, exposure history, and the type of claim. The table below shows the main paths and typical ranges.
| Claim type | What it covers | Typical range / source | Claim needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos trust funds | Claims paid from bankrupt asbestos manufacturers’ trust funds | $30B+ available across active trusts; each trust sets its own payout schedule | No — filed directly, often in months. Trust fund payouts → |
| Mesothelioma settlement | Negotiated recovery from solvent companies that caused the exposure | Averages ~$1M–$1.4M (varies widely by case) | Yes — a claim is filed; most cases settle before trial |
| Wrongful-death claim | Filed by a surviving spouse or family after the patient has passed | Medical bills, lost income, and loss of companionship | Yes — must be filed within the state deadline. Wrongful death → |
| VA benefits | For veterans with an asbestos-related disease from military service | VA disability compensation plus health care (not a claim) | No — a separate VA claim. Veterans benefits → |