Accident Narrative
The pilot initiated the takeoff roll on an icy runway. According to the pilot's account, at approximately 70 knots, which corresponded to rotation speed, the aircraft started to drift left. Both the steering and rudder controls proved ineffective in halting the drift. Subsequently, the left propeller struck an ice bank bordering the runway. The impact caused the airplane to yaw left and depart the runway surface. During the excursion, the landing gear collapsed.
Environmental Conditions
The wind was from approximately 45 degrees to the right of the runway heading at an estimated speed of 4 knots. The edges of the runway were lined with snow banks approximately 2 feet high.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conducted an examination of the airplane's rudder and braking systems. The examination found no discrepancies in either system.