NTSB Factual Report

On January 3, 2004, about 1310 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA 28-181, N9272Q, collided with a vehicle while taxiing at Pine Mountain Lake Airport, Groveland, California. The pilot was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The private pilot and one passenger were not injured; the airplane sustained substantial damage. The personal flight departed Nut Tree Airport, Vacaville, California, about 1200. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.

In a written statement to the National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge (IIC), the pilot reported that while taxiing he was distracted by light snow and slush located in a dip of the taxiway. While he was focused on the dip, the left wing collided with a parked pickup truck. The pilot did not report any mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.

In a phone conversation with the IIC, the pilot reported that he was taxiing down the center of the taxiway when the collision occurred.

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's inadequate visual lookout, and his failure to maintain obstacle clearance. Factors to the accident were the parked vehicle, and the pilot's diverted attention.