This appeal arises pursuant to the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act, TEX. LAB. CODE ANN. § 401.001 et seq. (1989 Act). A contested case hearing was held on October 9, 2001. He determined that the respondent’s (claimant) compensable injury of __________, included post-traumatic stress disorder. The appellant (carrier) has appealed this determination, pointing out expert medical opinion on its side, as well as the fact that the event surrounding the injury was not very traumatic. There is no response from the claimant.
DECISION
We affirm the hearing officer’s decision.
Given the conflicting evidence concerning this extended injury, including “pro and con” medical opinion, it then becomes the responsibility of the hearing officer, as the trier of fact, to resolve those conflicts. Even where, as here, different inferences could be drawn from the evidence, the Appeals Panel will not substitute its own judgment for that of the hearing officer where his decision has sufficient support in the record. See National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania v. Soto, 819 S.W.2d 619, 620 (Tex. App.-El Paso 1991, writ denied); American Motorists Insurance Co. v. Volentine, 867 S.W.2d 170 (Tex. App.-Beaumont 1993, no writ). The site of the trauma and its immediate effects are not necessarily determinative of the nature and extent of the compensable injury and the full consequences of the original injury, together with the effects of its treatment, upon the health and body of the worker are to be considered. Western Casualty and Surety Company v. Gonzales, 518 S.W.2d 524 (Tex. 1975).
In considering all the evidence in the record, we cannot agree that the findings of the hearing officer are so against the great weight and preponderance of the evidence as to be manifestly wrong and unjust. In re King’s Estate, 150 Tex. 662, 244 S.W.2d 660 (1951). We therefore affirm the decision and order.
The true corporate name of the insurance carrier is LUMBERMENS MUTUAL CASUALTY COMPANY and the name and address of its registered agent for service of process is
CORPORATION SERVICE COMPANY
800 BRAZOS
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701.
Susan M. Kelley – Appeals Judge
CONCUR:
Michael B. McShane – Appeals Judge
Robert W. Potts – Appeals Judge