has launched a massive lawsuit against Government.

Mrs. Meredith Lustenberger is seeking "substantial'' damages from the Transport Ministry for her injuries.

The claim could run to millions of dollars, her attorney Mr. Darcy Lord said yesterday.

"My life will never be the same again,'' said Mrs. Lustenberger from her home in Norton, Massachusetts last night. "I don't have crutches, but I've still got a limp, and I suffer aching, soreness, and stiffness.'' Mrs. Lustenberger broke her hip and several bones in one foot in the April 7 incident.

She was apparently caught on a ferry gangplank when it was raised.

The 58-year-old tumbled from the suspended ramp onto the dock. She was brought back to Hamilton on the ferry, and helped on to an ambulance .

Days after receiving treatment at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for a hip replacement, she was flown out of Bermuda.

The Marine and Ports Department mounted an investigation into the incident.

At the time, department director Mr. Ron Ross was reported as saying no disciplinary action had been taken against any employees, and no new procedures introduced.

Government's health and safety officer also started an inquiry.

On Monday a writ against Government was entered in the Supreme Court register.

Yesterday Mr. Lord said: "This is a claim for injuries arising out of the incident.'' He said Mrs. Lustenberger had been "incapacitated'' because of her injuries.

She was still receiving treatment, he added.

Mr. Lord said the claim for damages would be "substantial'', possibly running into seven figures.

Mrs. Lustenberger said she had had to undergo weeks of therapy since having an artificial hip.

She has also suffered emotionaly and psychologically from the accident.

"I was a very active person, but now I have to do everything slowly.'' She added she had to give up her job taking care of an elderly lady.

"I obviously couldn't keep that up, since I needed assistance myself,'' she said.

Mrs. Lustenberger said she would still return to Bermuda, despite the incident.

"The people of Bermuda are absolutely marvellous. The nurses and doctors were wonderful in the hospital.'' Mrs. Lustenberger said her damages claim would cover medical and legal expenses.