Flight History
A pilot received a preflight briefing before a morning departure from Monterey. The forecast indicated 3000 to 5000 feet broken clouds with widely scattered rain showers by 1600, and a general outlook of VFR. The pilot flew to Santa Barbara to attend a meeting. At 1709, the pilot departed Santa Barbara for the return trip without obtaining a preflight weather briefing.
Weather Conditions
When the aircraft departed on the night cross-country flight, weather conditions en route were reported as 2500 to 5000 feet broken to overcast, with tops reported to 8500 feet. Flight precautions for mountain obscurement were in effect. Persons in the area later reported the weather conditions consisted of a low overcast, visibility approximately 1/2 mile with fog and light rain.
Accident Sequence
Subsequently, the aircraft impacted rising terrain near the top of a hill at an elevation of approximately 2700 feet MSL. There was evidence the aircraft was in level flight when the accident occurred. Impact was approximately 200 yards from a two-lane highway. No preimpact mechanical problems were evident.