Flight and Pilot's Actions
The pilot had departed the airport on the second leg of a cross-country flight when the accident occurred. He reported that he was unable to obtain a weather briefing prior to departure and intended to call Flight Watch once airborne.
Encounter with Thunderstorm
After departure, a thunderstorm was encountered. The pilot initiated a 180-degree turn back to the airport. Due to severe turbulence, he elected to make an emergency landing on a road.
Emergency Landing Attempt and Go-Around
When the aircraft was on final approach to land, a truck and trailer pulled out onto the road. The pilot attempted a go-around. During the go-around, another downdraft was experienced, and he veered the aircraft to the left to avoid the truck.
Collision
The aircraft then hit an overpass and descended to the road below.
Weather Conditions
Other local pilots stated there was no turbulence in the area that day, but the weather was deteriorating rapidly.