Find Out if You're Eligible for Compensation
There are not many industrial asbestos sites in South Dakota. However, there are deposits of naturally occurring asbestos within the state borders. These deposits are located near the Jewell Cave National Monument and Custer State Park.
Jobs with Asbestos Exposure in South Dakota
Exposure in the state of South Dakota was typically in mechanic shops and machinery manufacturers. South Dakota also had power plants sporadically spread across the state. When the machinery begins to show signs of wear and tear, asbestos fibers may be disturbed and released. Workers are then at risk for inhaling the fibers that can cause them mesothelioma or asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestosis is scarring of the lungs.
South Dakota has its share of power plants. The generators found in power plants often contain asbestos that can eventually become friable. When asbestos becomes friable, it is more likely to be disturbed and released into the air. Generators and pipelines may even contain asbestos insulation. Asbestos is used often as insulation due to its ability to resist fire and heat. Workers in these plants are at risk for potential asbestos exposure.
The construction industry is also at risk for asbestos exposure. Construction workers often work around asbestos-containing cement, drywall products, flooring, tile, and insulation. Construction workers may also expose family members to asbestos from the fibers that attach to their work clothes.
Where You May Have Been Exposed to Asbestos in South Dakota
Power Plants
- Pathfinder Plant
- Big Stone Plant
Asbestos-Related Deaths in South Dakota
South Dakota has a relatively low rate of asbestos deaths compared to other states. Since 1979, there have been only 63 deaths caused by asbestos exposure. The majority of South Dakota's asbestos-induced deaths were caused by mesothelioma.
Legal Resources for South Dakota
South Dakota statute allows you three years to file a personal injury claim based upon proof of negligence on behalf of the asbestos manufacturers and/or your employers. Due to mesothelioma's latency period from the time of exposure to the time you are diagnosed, this particular statute may not apply.
The statute of limitations in the state of South Dakota for an asbestos case can be different from personal injury statutes. Even if your case has merit, missing the window of opportunity to file within the set statute of limitations can leave you unable to file your claim. It is advised that you contact us and let us help you determine if you have a potential case and to draft a time-line for your lawsuit of when your statutes are over.
