Incident Overview
A pilot who had purchased a 50-hour block of flight time in the airplane was conducting a takeoff. A flight instructor served as a safety pilot, with the pilot acting as pilot-in-command to meet insurance requirements.
Takeoff Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the pilot performed the takeoff while the instructor called out airspeeds and directed his attention inside and outside the cockpit. When the airspeed reached 80 mph, the instructor maintained his vision outside the cockpit. The pilot reported feeling the airplane "hit a few dips in the runway." Both pilots then heard a "loud bang" emanating from the right side of the aircraft. At that point, the flight instructor assumed command of the flight.
Loss of Control and Final Position
Control was subsequently lost, and the airplane veered to the left. It crossed a taxiway and skidded into a ditch, where it came to a stop.
Pilot and Instructor Accounts
The instructor stated that the pilot's hand was on the throttles during the takeoff roll; however, after the 80 mph airspeed callout, he was not aware of the position of the pilot's hand. The pilot recalled moving his hand to the trim but did not remember touching the gear selector switch.
Post-Incident Examination
An operator and an FAA inspector examined the accident site and the aircraft landing gear system. They reported that damage to the gear doors was consistent with closed gear doors.