Accident Summary
A pilot flying a single-engine aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion while approximately five nautical miles from his intended destination. The pilot initiated a forced landing to a paved highway. However, a car traveling on the highway obstructed the intended landing path. In an effort to avoid the vehicle, the pilot moved the aircraft to allow the car to pass, then attempted to realign with the road. The subsequent landing occurred short of the highway, causing the aircraft to nose over onto its back.
Damage
During the accident sequence, the aircraft sustained substantial damage. The vertical stabilizer, both wings, and the fuselage were bent and/or wrinkled as a result of the impact and inversion.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that he had flown over an airport approximately 30 to 40 minutes before the accident and acknowledged that he could have stopped for fuel at that location. The pilot's statement indicates that the fuel exhaustion was preventable, as an opportunity to refuel had been available.