Accident Summary
A pilot reported striking a road sign with the left wing while taking off from a road. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing, as revealed during a post-accident examination.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll, the airplane accelerated rapidly. He then felt a sudden lurch to the left, at which moment the parking brake—which he had forgotten to release—released. The pilot added that he "incorrectly assumed" the brake had grabbed and caused the lurch, unaware that the airplane had struck a sign. He corrected with rudder and continued the flight. The pilot noted that the airplane flew "normally" afterward, albeit with a "slightly left-wing heavy feel." The flight proceeded without further incident.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident examination of the airplane confirmed substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.