The Incident
A pilot reported that before the flight, he performed weight and balance and performance calculations using the initial fuel level. After the airplane's fuel tanks were filled to capacity, he did not amend those calculations.
During the takeoff roll, the airplane became airborne. The pilot felt the airplane was not performing as expected and decided to reduce power. He landed the airplane on the remaining runway but determined he did not have enough distance to stop. He attempted to exit the runway onto a taxiway, but the airplane understeered and departed the runway into a ditch.
Damage and Weight
Post-accident inspection revealed substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot stated on the National Transportation Safety Board 6120.1 Form that the airplane's maximum gross weight was 2,460 pounds. At the time of the accident, the weight was 2,600 pounds, approximately 140 pounds over the maximum.
Mechanical Condition
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.