Incident Overview
According to the pilot, a cross-country flight intended for time building was interrupted by multiple mechanical malfunctions. On the fourth leg of the trip, the pilot noticed the airplane was low on fuel after departing from an airport. He diverted to a nearby airport, landed, and added 10 gallons of fuel.
Starting and Electrical Problems
Following refueling, the airplane would not start. The pilot requested assistance from a maintenance shop to jump-start the battery. Subsequently, during taxi to the runway, he observed that the "radios and other electronics" were inoperative. Despite this, he continued to the runway.
Takeoff Incident
During the takeoff roll, the pilot was startled by a loud noise in his headset, which he believed originated from the airplane's communication radio. While attempting to assess the problem, the airplane veered off the right side of the runway into the safety area.
Subsequent Actions
After regaining control, the pilot taxied back to the approach end of the runway. He performed a flight control check and an engine power check, then departed the airport. The pilot then landed at a non-towered airport "to check out the aircraft." He conducted another flight control check and an engine run-up but did not exit the airplane "because of the starting issue." He then departed for the destination airport.
Post-Flight Discovery
The pilot reported landing at the destination airport and taxiing to parking. He recalled performing a post-flight check, stating that "other than grass and grass stains [he] did not see any damage." Later that evening, the airplane owner informed the pilot that the left wing was damaged. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left-wing spar and aileron.