Accident Overview
A pilot reported that 20 gallons of fuel was added on May 18, which brought the main tanks up to near full (160 gallons). Between that fueling and the accident, a total of 6.0 hours of flight time were recorded, and an additional 80 gallons of fuel was added. Records at the accident site revealed that the aircraft's total fuel burn rate was 40 gallons per hour.
Preflight Fuel Planning
The pilot stated that he relied on the external wing site gauges and known fuel added for fuel information rather than the cockpit gauges, which he considered unreliable. Additionally, the pilot preferred not to 'top off' the fuel system to keep the aircraft weight low. After departing for a 98 nautical mile return trip, the aircraft exhausted all fuel approximately 8 nautical miles short of the destination.
Forced Landing
The pilot executed a forced landing onto a divided residential street, which was the only suitable terrain available. During the landing, the aircraft struck a light pole and a vehicle.
Post-Accident Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed that the aircraft was not refueled at the departure point for the return trip.