Event Summary
An aircraft experienced a tire blowout during the landing rollout after the pilot intentionally steered the right wheel onto the grass adjacent to the runway. The incident occurred approximately 35 feet from the end of the runway, at which point the aircraft had slowed to about 20 mph. The aircraft continued 15 feet off the end of the runway before coming to a stop.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that after touchdown, full braking power was applied immediately upon getting the right wheel on the grass, hoping to achieve better drag without placing excessive pressure on the tire, as opposed to braking on asphalt. The pilot stated that until the tire blew, the situation felt under control.
Safety Recommendation
Under the operator/owner safety recommendation, the pilot suggested that better evaluation of wind conditions might have prevented the accident, noting that the actual wind conditions were not what was reported on the ATIS at GRR (Grand Rapids).