Event
A Cessna 182G aircraft collided with trees while rolling out after landing on a dirt road. The pilot had experienced a gradual drop in manifold pressure to 18 pounds, resulting in an inability to maintain altitude. The pilot subsequently landed the aircraft on a dirt road, but during the landing roll, both wings struck trees.
Pilot Account
In a telephone interview, the pilot reported that the manifold pressure gradually decreased to 18 pounds, making it impossible to sustain altitude. The pilot then executed a landing on a dirt road. After the landing, the aircraft's wings hit trees during the rollout.
According to the pilot's statement on his Pilot/Operator Accident Report, he suspected a power loss while flying over a high mountain area at 4,343 feet MSL. He chose to land on a ridge. The pilot also noted that he touched down with excessive speed and attempted to lift off again, but was unable to gain altitude.
Regarding the cause of the power loss, the pilot stated, "After thinking it out I suspect I encountered carburetor ice. I did not perform the procedures."