Flight and Landing
The pilot reported that the flight proceeded to the destination airport area and obtained the ATIS information but could not recall its content. Approaching visually, the controller advised prior to landing that the pilot would be landing with a right quartering tailwind. The pilot accepted the assigned runway and continued the approach to runway 25. Due to the tailwind, the pilot stated he misjudged his landing speed.
Accident Sequence
After touchdown with full flaps, the airplane departed the south side of runway 25. The aircraft traveled onto grass and rolled approximately 500 feet. At that point, the nose landing gear wheel contacted the edge of a newly constructed taxiway that extended 2.5 to 3.0 inches above the grass surface. The nose landing gear wheel assembly separated, and the airplane continued across the taxiway. The damaged section of the nose landing gear then contacted and dug into grass on the opposite side of the taxiway, causing the airplane to nose over.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the accident site by an FAA inspector revealed that the airplane departed the south side of runway 25 approximately 1,000 feet from the approach threshold. The inspector stated there were no mechanical issues associated with the accident.
Air Traffic Control Information
Review of a certified copy of the voice tape from the air traffic control tower revealed that before the pilot contacted the facility, the local controller advised on the frequency to expect a runway change and that the wind was from 010 to 040 degrees at 12 knots. Subsequently, the pilot was cleared to land on runway 25 and was advised the wind was from 020 degrees at 12 knots.