NTSB Factual Report

According to the pilot, "upon landing, [the] rear passenger had [his] foot on the brake causing [the] aircraft to dart to the left." The pilot further stated that he could not overcome the braking action with the rudder. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and collided with trees. Both the pilot and passenger reported no injuries.

Examination of the airplane by an FAA Inspector found both wings substantially damaged. Further examination of the left wheel assembly revealed no binding or operational abnormalities with the left brake. There were no other mechanical problems reported by the pilot or discovered during the post-accident examination of the airplane.

NTSB Probable Cause

The passenger's inadvertent application of the left brake during landing roll, which resulted in a swerve to the left and impact with trees.