On August 24, 1985, a Beech C23 (registration N6975R) was involved in an aviation accident near Clarksburg, WV. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot encountered less than VFR weather, attempted to reach an airport, but became boxed in and tried to land on a highway. On short final, a car pulled out, causing the pilot to pull up and strike power lines, leading to a crash and fire.
Accident Narrative
The pilot of an aircraft encountered weather conditions that were less than visual flight rules (VFR) standards. After turning around and attempting to reach an airport, the pilot became surrounded by adverse weather. Unable to proceed to an airport, the pilot attempted to land on a highway.
Sequence of Events
The pilot did not perform a precautionary search pattern (PSS) over the intended landing area. While on short final approach, a car exited a side road onto the highway ahead of the aircraft. The pilot initiated a go-around, pulling up to avoid the vehicle. During this maneuver, the right wing contacted overhead power transmission lines. The aircraft subsequently crash-landed on the road, slid along the surface, and struck a guard rail. After coming to rest, the aircraft caught fire and was destroyed.