Incident Overview
A helicopter pilot reported that, while maneuvering at low altitude during an aerial application flight, he "forgot to duck" for some nearby transmission wires. The tail rotor subsequently struck the transmission wires, and the helicopter impacted terrain.
Damage Assessment
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom as a result of the impact with terrain.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. The incident was attributed to the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the transmission wires while maneuvering at low altitude.