Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that he was in a hurry to takeoff before it got dark. He began the takeoff with the flaps retracted because he did not use the plane's takeoff checklist. The pilot recognized his error about three-quarters into the takeoff run. He reasoned that it was safer to attempt to extend the flaps and continue with the takeoff rather than abort. The plane overran the shoreline and collided with trees a short distance beyond.
Pilot Actions
The pilot acknowledged that he did not use the checklist, which was located on the flight control yoke directly in front of him. Despite recognizing the error after three-quarters of the takeoff run, he decided against aborting the takeoff and instead attempted to extend the flaps while continuing the takeoff.
Post-Accident Observations
The plane departed the runway, overran the shoreline, and struck trees beyond. The checklist was found on the flight control yoke, confirming its availability to the pilot.