Flight Details
A private pilot, who was not instrument rated, invited a certified flight instructor (CFI) to accompany a cross-country flight because marginal weather was forecast. On the return trip from Atlanta, the CFI filed an IFR flight plan.
In-Flight Events
During the flight, the right fuel tank was run dry. Upon reaching the Chicago area, the flight was cleared direct Joliet, direct DuPage, and descend to 4,000 ft. The private pilot stated that the CFI relinquished control of the aircraft after stating, 'I have a severe case of vertigo.' The private pilot stated he took control of the aircraft. Shortly thereafter, he requested a landing at Joliet because of low fuel. The flight was given radar vectors to Joliet after the private pilot stated he could not fly an instrument approach. Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) informed the flight they were 'right over the airport'; however, the private pilot stated they never located it.
Final Approach and Accident
He continued that after descending to ground contact altitude, the engine quit. He began lining up to land on a highway at which time the CFI 'grabbed the yoke and put us into a steep turn to the left right into a grove of trees.' The CFI was fatally injured in the accident.