Incident Overview
The pilot, traveling from New Mexico to North Dakota, began the trip the evening before the accident. Due to poor weather, the flight was rerouted through several alternate fuel and oil stops. While en route to a planned fuel stop, the engine lost oil pressure. The aircraft was too far from a suitable airport, forcing the pilot to land on a highway.
After Landing Actions
After securing the aircraft on the highway, the pilot obtained a ride to the nearest town and purchased oil. Upon returning, the pilot added oil to the engine. Despite having gone without sleep for almost 30 hours, the pilot attempted to take off from the highway.
Takeoff and Accident
During the takeoff roll, the airplane struck a speed limit sign located on the edge of the highway with its right wing. Following the impact, the pilot lost directional control, and the aircraft swerved into a ditch.
Investigation Findings
The investigation documented the sequence of events as reported by the pilot. No official probable cause was stated in the source, though the pilot's prolonged lack of sleep was noted in the context of the decision to conduct the highway takeoff.