Event Description
The aircraft was taxied to the runway without any observed abnormalities in the braking or steering systems. The taxi route included two 90-degree turns and one 180-degree turn. As takeoff power was applied, the pilot anticipated the aircraft's tendency to turn left and compensated with right rudder. However, the pilot reported that "it did not produce the usual corrective action." The pilot then attempted to apply braking to stop the turn, but the aircraft departed the left side of the runway approximately 75 feet from the start of the takeoff roll. The engine was still developing full power at the time. The pilot aborted the takeoff, and the aircraft proceeded into low-lying brush before coming to rest upright.
Examination Findings
Subsequent examination of the aircraft revealed that the rudder pedals and brakes operated normally.
Reference
According to the Federal Aviation Administration Airplane Flying Handbook, "In the event a takeoff is rejected, the power should be reduced to idle and maximum braking applied while maintaining directional control."