Incident Summary
A pilot conducted a cross-country flight after obtaining weather information via the Internet. During the flight, the pilot also monitored automated weather reports through radio communications. Approximately two hours into the flight, when the airplane was 17 miles from the destination airport, the wind increased to 25 knots and rain began. The pilot executed a 180-degree turn to reverse course, but the rain and turbulence intensified, accompanied by a decrease in visibility and ceiling height.
Precautionary Landing and Accident
Faced with deteriorating conditions, the pilot performed a precautionary landing on a road. About 200 feet into the landing roll, the airplane veered left off the road and struck an orange tree. The impact with the tree resulted in the separation of the right wing.
Pilot Remarks
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. Additionally, the pilot noted that he should have reversed course 20 minutes sooner than he did.