Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain taxiway centerline while taxiing off the runway which resulted in a left-wing strike with a runway direction sign.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The glider pilot reported that he continued the rollout and maneuvered the 87-foot-wide glider onto the taxiway shortly after landing on a 75-foot-wide runway. Subsequently, the left wing struck a runway direction sign and sustained substantial damage. The pilot further reported that he should have stopped the glider completely on the runway and confirmed that he was centerline while maneuvering off the runway. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.