Accident Overview
A student pilot, who had accumulated 28 hours of solo flight time, was practicing takeoffs and landings on Runway 25R. During his fourth landing, intended as a touch-and-go, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway. It subsequently struck rough terrain and came to rest inverted after nosing over.
Pilot Statement
The pilot informed FAA safety inspectors that it felt as though the nose wheel steering was not functioning properly during the event.
Aircraft Inspection
FAA airworthiness inspectors examined the aircraft following the accident. Their inspection revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures.