Incident Overview
A pilot reported experiencing a loss of control during the takeoff roll. According to the pilot's account, the takeoff began normally. At a speed of 25 to 30 miles per hour, the pilot raised the tail. Immediately afterward, the airplane jerked to the left. The pilot applied right rudder to correct, causing the airplane to overshoot the runway centerline. Subsequently, the airplane jerked to the left again.
Aborted Takeoff and Runway Excursion
The pilot decided to abort the takeoff. Despite the abort, the airplane skidded off the right side of the runway. The right landing gear collapsed during the excursion, and the airplane nosed over.
Pilot's Interview and Observations
In an interview, the pilot described the sequence further. He stated that he "over-corrected" and that the airplane began "fish tailing." As the aircraft swerved to the left, the right wing made contact with the ground, and the airplane then nosed over. The pilot offered a possible explanation for the loss of control: he may have inadvertently stepped on a brake pedal.