Pilot Reports Aircraft Veers Left After Touch-and-Go, Strikes Sign

Accident Details

The pilot reported performing two touch-and-go takeoffs and landings without incident. On the third landing, the wind was noted to be straight down the runway. After touchdown, the pilot added power and raised the flaps for takeoff. Within a few seconds, the airplane veered sharply to the left, and the pilot attempted to correct back to the runway. The pilot observed taxiway lights and a large sign on the right side. To avoid damaging the airplane by making an abrupt maneuver toward the runway, the pilot steered the airplane to the left and away from the sign. However, the tail section struck the sign. The airplane then departed the runway and came to a stop in a field.

Post-Accident Examination

Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the elevator had sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane at the time of the accident.