Flight and Fuel Management
During a personal cross-country flight, the pilot anticipated a potential fuel shortage and requested the nearest airport from approach control. The nearest airport was within five miles of the intended destination, so the pilot continued on course. Approximately 15 miles from the destination, after switching to the last fuel tank, which indicated less than one-quarter full, the fuel pressure gauge began to flicker, suggesting imminent fuel exhaustion.
Decision to Land on Road
Rather than risk an emergency landing in an upcoming populated area, the pilot elected to make a precautionary landing on a rural road while still having engine power. A country road was selected for the landing.
Landing and Outcome
During the landing roll-out, the aircraft struck a road sign, causing the aircraft to veer into a ditch. The pilot reported that fuel computations were based on fuel used and remaining, and that the fuel quantity was not visually checked before departure.