Accident Sequence
The pilot reported a normal start and taxi. The airplane was cleared for takeoff. During the takeoff roll, the airplane drifted to the right. The pilot applied left rudder to correct. When the airplane reached 100 knots, the pilot rotated. At about 30 feet altitude, the airplane experienced a roll to the right. The pilot attempted to counter the roll with left rudder but was unable to apply sufficient left rudder input. The airplane drifted to the right of the runway and over an adjacent parallel taxiway. The pilot regained partial control by reducing engine power and banking the airplane to the left. He then attempted to land on the taxiway but could not judge his height above ground due to low visibility. The airplane subsequently impacted terrain to the right of the taxiway.
Damage
Both wings and the fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Post-Accident Observations
Before exiting the airplane, the pilot noted that the rudder trim was set to the full nose-right position. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Maintenance Background
Prior to the accident, maintenance was completed that consisted of an “Event II & Routine” inspection. The inspection procedure required lubrication of the rudder trim system, a trim tab free play inspection, and an operational check before returning the airplane to service. A review of the maintenance procedures revealed that there was no guidance on returning the rudder trim control system to a neutral position at the completion of the inspection.