Incident Overview
A certificated commercial pilot and three passengers were departing on a night visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight. The flight was conducted in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The airplane was equipped with a hand control mechanism mounted on the right side of the center control console, which required the pilot to manipulate all of the airplane controls—except the control column—with the right hand.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, the pilot failed to properly use the rudder control by relaxing right rudder control pressure. As a result, the airplane drifted to the left and struck an 8-inch berm of snow located along the side of the runway.
Weather and Visibility
The prevailing visibility conditions varied from 3/4 of a mile down to 50 feet, which restricted the pilot's visual acuity. The pilot reported that the runway lights were obscured by snow.
Aircraft and Equipment
The airplane was outfitted with a hand control mechanism mounted on the right side of the center control console. This setup required the pilot to use the right hand for all controls except the control column.