Accident Details
A pilot was flying an ultralight vehicle at low altitude over a lake. To cross a dam, the pilot pulled up. After crossing the dam, the pilot began to descend. The ultralight then collided with power lines on the down river side of the dam. The power lines were approximately 135 feet above the terrain on that side of the dam.
Post-Impact Sequence
After hitting the power lines, the vehicle flipped upside down and impacted the ground with full power.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed evidence that the pilot attempted to deploy the parachute attached to the airframe.
Power Line Visibility
The power lines were not marked and would have been hard to see with the terrain features in the background.