Accident Sequence
The airplane was on final approach to land when it struck a vehicle traveling on a road bordering the east side of the airport. After the collision, the airplane traveled about 46 feet and came to rest in a grass area approximately 443 feet before the approach end of the runway.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that while on base leg in the traffic pattern, he appeared to be a "bit high" and reduced power slightly. After turning onto final approach, the airplane began to "settle quickly," so he reapplied power and adjusted flight controls to maintain airspeed. The pilot reported that his focus at that point was on the runway and the cornfield below him. He stated that the portion of the road he could see and the runway both appeared clear. Everything seemed "normal" until he approached the edge of the cornfield, at which time he sensed he was low and added power. The pilot continued: "The crest of the road at the approach course was obscured by my own aircraft as I saw the terrain rising toward me. Interpreting it as sink despite my power, I did not realize it was actually the elevation rising. ... Seeing the road approach beneath my wheels all I can then recall was my bewilderment when the airplane lurched."
Impact Details
The right main landing gear struck the frame above the left rear passenger window of the Chevy Blazer. The nose gear contacted the left side of the windshield and the driver's door window frame. Neither the pilot nor the driver of the vehicle saw each other prior to the impact.