American Legend AL3C N3737G accident near Warrenton, Virginia

Probable cause

The pilot's improper application of brakes during the landing rollout.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot of the tailwheel airplane, during the landing rollout, he applied "too much braking pressure" in an attempt to exit the runway at the closest taxiway. The pilot also stated that he felt the tail of the airplane "rise up," but did not release the brakes soon enough to keep the airplane from nosing over. When the airplane was subsequently examined, substantial damage was noted to the rudder and right wing. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies. Winds at the accident airport about the time of the accident were reported as calm. In the block listed under the section entitled “Recommendations” in the NTSB’s 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Accident/Incident Report form, the pilot stated the following in writing: “Not reacting soon enough when the [aircraft] became unstable (tail light) was the primary cause of the accident, and poor judgment, or just allowing the landing roll to play out would have avoided the accident.”

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09CA463 for the full record.