Accident Details
According to the pilot's report, the accident occurred during takeoff from a private dirt airstrip. The runway had a 3% uphill slope and was crowned in the center. The pilot reported difficulty correcting for torque, P-factor, and crosswind during the takeoff roll. The airplane initially veered left. After correcting to the right, the airplane again veered to the left side of the airstrip. The left wing struck a tree, and the airplane exited the left side of the runway. It briefly ascended before descending into brush, where it came to rest.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented had he aborted the takeoff sooner. He also reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing.
Weather Information
The pilot reported that the wind was variable at 10 to 15 knots. The nearest Meteorological Aerodrome Report, located at an airport 14 miles to the east, indicated that around the time of the accident the wind was from 280° at 7 knots. The pilot had used runway 34 for takeoff.