WorkInjuryCalc
South Dakota Workers' Comp · Occupational Disease

Education Worker Injured in South Dakota?

Last updated: 2026 · Verified against South Dakota DWC regulations

JH

Reviewed by: James R. Holloway, Esq.

Workers' Compensation Attorney · CA Bar #248701 · 14 yrs exp.

Last reviewed: January 2026 · Verified against state DWC regulations

Find out what your mesothelioma / asbestos disease claim is worth. South Dakota workers typically receive $6,000–$48,000. Free, no-obligation assessment.

In South Dakota, TTD benefits are capped at $954/week. The statute of limitations is 2 years from injury.

$6,000

Avg low

$48,000

Avg high

2 years

Deadline

Pre-filled for your situation — just add your wage & impairment info.

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5
Step 4 of 5

Tell us about your work

$800
$200$3,000

Your estimated weekly TTD benefit: $533/week

2 yrs
1 month30 years
8 weeks
1 week52+ weeks

67%

of avg weekly wage (TTD)

$954

max weekly benefit

25%

typical attorney fee

2

filing deadline

South Dakota Workers' Comp Law — Key Facts

Governing statute: SDCL § 62-1-1 et seq.

TTD rate: 67% of average weekly wage

Maximum weekly benefit: $954

Statute of limitations: 2 years from injury

Filing deadline: Report to employer within 3 days

Key features of South Dakota's system:

  • 3-day notice to employer (among strictest)
  • Department of Labor serves administrative function
  • Occupational disease claims have 6-year limitation

South Dakota's Department of Labor and Regulation administers workers' compensation. South Dakota uses AMA Guides for impairment ratings and provides scheduled benefits for extremity injuries. The state has a unique 6-year statute of limitations for certain occupational diseases and requires employer reporting of injuries within 7 days. South Dakota's benefit structure includes both medical and indemnity benefits.

What to Expect with Mesothelioma / Asbestos Disease in South Dakota

80%

Average impairment rating

$250,000

Average medical costs

Mesothelioma is a malignant cancer of the pleura, peritoneum, or pericardium caused almost exclusively by asbestos exposure. Latency between first asbestos exposure and diagnosis typically ranges from 20 to 50 years, meaning workers diagnosed today were exposed in industrial settings decades ago. Mesothelioma workers' compensation claims intersect significantly with personal injury asbestos litigation, which historically has produced settlements and verdicts in the millions. Workers' comp provides medical benefits and wage replacement, but the tort system typically provides far greater compensation for pain and suffering. Many asbestos trust funds — created by bankrupt asbestos manufacturers — pay claims independently of workers' comp. Mesothelioma carries a median survival of 12–21 months, making prompt legal action critical.

Common treatments

  • Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) or pleurectomy/decortication (P/D)
  • Chemotherapy (pemetrexed + cisplatin)
  • Immunotherapy (pembrolizumab, nivolumab)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Palliative care and pain management
  • Clinical trial enrollment

Documentation needed

  • Pathology report confirming mesothelioma diagnosis
  • Asbestos exposure history (employment records, union records)
  • Coworker affidavits identifying asbestos products
  • Military service records (if shipyard or Navy exposure)
  • Social Security earnings history
  • Asbestos trust fund claim eligibility evidence
Return to work: Mesothelioma is generally a totally disabling condition; most claimants are unable to return to work and may qualify for permanent total disability or Social Security Disability.

Frequently asked questions

How is mesothelioma / asbestos disease compensation calculated in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, your weekly benefit is 67% of your average weekly wage, capped at $954. Permanent disability is calculated based on your impairment rating.

What is the average mesothelioma / asbestos disease settlement in South Dakota?

South Dakota workers with mesothelioma / asbestos disease typically settle between $6,000 and $48,000, depending on impairment rating, treatment costs, and lost wages.

How long do I have to file a workers' comp claim in South Dakota?

2 years from injury. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. Contact a workers' comp attorney as soon as possible.

Do I need a lawyer for a workers' comp claim in South Dakota?

You are not required to have an attorney, but representation significantly increases average settlement amounts. Most workers' comp attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless you win. Typical fees are 25% of settlement.

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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual compensation depends on the specific facts of your case, your state's workers' compensation laws, and the outcome of any proceedings. Always consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney in your state.