What happened
On the day of the accident, an ATP rated pilot with 69 hours of experience in the specific make and model was attempting to depart from Runway 14. Prior to departure, the pilot taxied the homebuilt airplane from a hangar to the active runway. Before beginning the takeoff roll, the pilot performed a 360-degree clockwise turn to check for approaching traffic, followed by a left turn onto the runway.
During the takeoff roll on the 3,740-foot asphalt runway, the aircraft began swerving toward the left side of the runway. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying right rudder, but the aircraft failed to respond to the input. Consequently, the airplane exited the left side of the runway and struck a berm and a nearby railroad track. There were no injuries reported in the accident.
At the time of the event, weather observations from a facility 6 nautical miles northeast of the site indicated winds from 220 degrees at 6 knots.
The investigation
An FAA inspector examined the aircraft's flight controls and tailwheel assembly. This examination did not reveal any anomalies or mechanical failures present prior to the accident.