By The Canadian Press

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - The lone survivor of a helicopter crash that killed 17 people off Newfoundland's east coast says the chopper started making "erratic motions" moments before the plunge.

Robert Decker told an inquiry today that the chopper instantly filled with water after it crashed into the ocean. Decker says he unbuckled his seatbelt, escaped through a window and ascended to the surface of the sea after.

He says cold water that got into his survival suit caused him to lose control of his hands.

He told the probe that he suffered serious injuries that include a broken sternum and broken ankle, and at times worried he was paralyzed.

But he says he talked and sang to himself before he was rescued.

His testimony marks the first time he has shared a public account of what happened when the helicopter crashed in March.

Decker spent nearly three weeks in a St. John's hospital after he was plucked from the icy waters of the North Atlantic.

The inquiry is assessing whether offshore helicopter risks are as low as is reasonably practical.