Incident Overview
During the takeoff roll, a single-engine tail-wheel equipped agricultural airplane departed the left side of a 20-foot wide gravel runway. Despite the pilot applying full right rudder and right brake, the aircraft exited the runway surface.
Post-Exit Sequence
After leaving the runway, the airplane crossed a creek and subsequently impacted an embankment before coming to rest in an upright position. The pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted moments before the aircraft became engulfed in flames.
Pilot's Observations
Following the accident, the pilot reported that the tailwheel was found in an unlocked condition. The pilot stated that this unlocked tailwheel may have contributed to the accident and that a pre-takeoff check to verify the tailwheel was locked could have potentially prevented the occurrence.