Introduction
A personal flight operating under 14 CFR Part 91 in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions ended when the airplane struck power lines crossing a highway. The accident occurred in a gently rolling wide mountain valley. A witness reported seeing the airplane flying low over the highway just before the collision.
Accident Sequence
The power lines were approximately 30 feet above the highway surface. Upon impact, the cables did not break immediately; instead, they were pulled free from the poles on both sides of the highway. The force snapped the top six feet and cross arm off one pole. The airplane then carried the cables and attached debris about 100 yards to its final resting place.
Examination Findings
Investigators found that all major airframe components and flight controls were present, and flight-control continuity was established. One propeller blade showed extensive leading edge gouging, chord-wise scratches, and torsional twisting and bending. Examination of the engine revealed no preimpact mechanical anomalies. The pilot did not indicate in a written report to the NTSB that there were any preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane.
Occupant Injuries
The pilot and front seat passenger both sustained serious injuries. Neither occupant had any recollection of the accident.