Preflight and Fuel Indications
During the preflight inspection, the pilot checked the fuel gauges, which indicated 12 gallons in the left wing tank and 18 gallons in the right wing tank. The pilot noted that the right tank indicated just below half a tank. The pilot stated that it is not possible to visually gauge the fuel quantity once the amount is below 30 gallons per tank, and that it is difficult to know exactly how much fuel is in the airplane.
In-Flight Events
Approximately 24 minutes after takeoff, the pilot reported that the engine experienced initial indications of low fuel while operating from the left fuel tank. The pilot then switched fuel selection to the right tank. Instead of proceeding to the destination, which was 35 miles away, the pilot diverted to a closer airport 15 miles away. After 5 minutes of flight, the engine again demonstrated conditions consistent with low fuel.
Precautionary Landing
Not believing that he could make the runway, the pilot decided to make a precautionary landing in a cattle pasture located about 1 mile from the airport. During the landing, the right main landing gear collapsed and the right wing was structurally damaged.
Post-Accident Inspection
Post-accident inspection of the fuel system found that both fuel tanks were nearly empty of fuel. Inspection of the right fuel gauge indicated about 1/3, when in fact the fuel tank was empty.