Accident Overview
A pilot was approaching his destination and listened to the automated weather observation system (AWOS), which reported winds from 230 degrees at 10 knots. The pilot landed on runway 16. During the landing, the right wing lifted, causing the airplane to veer to the left of the runway and enter a field.
Sequence of Events
As the airplane rolled through the field, the left main landing gear separated, and the left wing impacted the ground. The airplane came to rest in a ditch. Following the accident, the pilot stated that the wind was gusting.
Pilot Comments
In his statement, the pilot noted that an airport guide indicates that pilots are authorized to land on the taxiway (which runs northeast/southwest) during crosswind conditions. The pilot felt that the 10-knot wind velocity did not warrant landing on the taxiway.
Mechanical Status
The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.