On August 5, 1987, a Piper PA-25 (registration N6400Z) operated by Emmett Ray Everitt was involved in an aviation accident near Lubbock, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control during taxi due to restricted rudder and brake application caused by his boot toe rubbing on a dispensing hopper, resulting in a collision with a sign. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost control while exiting the runway after his boot toe rubbed against a dispensing hopper, restricting rudder and brake application. The aircraft collided with a sign.
What happened
The incident occurred during the ground handling phase of flight as the aircraft was exiting the active runway. According to the factual narrative, the pilot experienced a loss of control while maneuvering off the paved surface. This loss of control led directly to a collision with a stationary sign located near the runway exit.
The investigation
A physical examination of the aircraft cockpit revealed significant evidence regarding the cause of the accident. Investigators found that the toe of the pilot's left boot was rubbing against a dispensing hopper installed in the footwell area. This interference restricted the pilot's ability to fully apply the rudder and brake pedals.
Further inspection showed that the fiberglass hopper had deep abrasions just forward and above both rudder pedals. These marks were consistent with the toes of both boots rubbing against the structure within the confined space of the cockpit floor.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control during taxi due to restricted rudder and brake application caused by his boot toe rubbing on a dispensing hopper, resulting in a collision with a sign.