I have worked for a company based out of Minneapolis, MN for almost 3 years now. I hurt myself at work (was crushed b/t a industrial shelf unit and the clothes dryer) a year ago in September. I have been told I am fortunate that the company has used the Texas Workers Compensation Commission for Texas workers, however the situation I have been through has not appeared that way to me. I have 2 disc herniations in my lower back and I have had 2 previous ESI's (epidural steroid injection) and I am set up for a Facet Block on Friday. In July my Worker's Comp "Designated Doctor" gave me MMI and a 5% impairment rating. Obviously my doctors do not agree that I have reached MMI, obviously noting the recent attempts at injections/procedures to make me feel better. I was denied the most recent Facet Block, but appealed and was approved through appeal. I am still in the process of getting my doctors to write letters to the commission disagreeing with the designated doctor so my weekly checks do not stop. As of now I am receiving the 5% impairment rating benefit...which is scheduled to stop on 10/26/04, unless I appeal the decision of the designated doctor. From previous statements, I am obviously appealing that decision. Do you know how long it will take the commission to review my appeal? I am also being asked to go to an Orthopedic Surgeon for my Insurance company--I have the will to say yes I will or no I will not go. If I do not agree to go they will write the commission and seek their advice on forcing me to go to this second opinion doctor. Should I agree to go? I have really thought I have done a good job staying on top of all of the legal mumbo-jumbo until now. I am starting to feel bogged down and taken advantage of? Am I just being paranoid, or should I seriously seek an attorney to represent me with all of the issues that are at hand? Does Texas Workmans Compensation pay a "pain and suffering" settlement in the end? Just wondering because I have had so much that I would be proud and not ashamed at all to ask a judge in a court of law for such extra compensation. Thank you so much for all of your help.

I suggest you look at the website for the Texas Workers Compensation Commission. Their website is at: http://twcc.state.tx.us/information/workerresources_english.html#q9. Their website answers many of your questions, including whether you need an attorney to get through the workers' compensation system.

After you read through their website, let me know if you have any other questions.

Piece of crap. The TWCC is geared to protect employers in Texas. If you are injured on the job and make over $30,000 a year in Texas YOU ARE SCREWED!