Maule M-5-235C N56500 accident near Jay Em, Wyoming

Probable cause

The loss of directional control and subsequent nose over due to the inadvertent engagement of the right wheel parking brake as a result of cabin floor carpeting migrating between the right brake master cylinder and parking brake locking lever.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was conducting a personal flight and elected to land on a grass strip located on a friend’s property. Prior to landing, the pilot performed several low passes to assess the landing area. The pilot stated that the approach and touchdown were normal. During the landing rollt, as he applied brakes, the airplane abruptly yawed right and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, lift struts, vertical stabilizer, and rudder.

Postaccident examination of the airplane by the pilot and a mechanic revealed that the right wheel was locked, while the left wheel rotated freely. Further examination by the mechanic revealed that cabin floor carpet had migrated upward and was lodged between the right brake master cylinder and the parking brake locking lever, which resulted in the right wheel parking brake being engaged.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA075 for the full record.