Accident Summary
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane was landing to refuel during a pleasure flight. After touchdown on the runway, the airplane began drifting to the left. Despite applying right rudder, the airplane continued traveling left and departed the left side of the runway. It subsequently contacted a ditch and nosed over, coming to rest inverted.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and left wing.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that after touchdown, the airplane drifted left and corrective right rudder was ineffective. The pilot stated there were no other mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.
Postaccident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane after the accident. The examination revealed that the left main landing gear leg had collapsed. The leg exhibited severe corrosion and evidence of a preexisting crack.