Champion Citabria 7ECA
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 8; Flight Crew Total 500; Flight Crew Type 400
Human-Machine Interface; Communication Breakdown
Ground Event / Encounter Loss Of Aircraft Control; Ground Event / Encounter Ground Strike - Aircraft; Ground Event / Encounter Object; Ground Excursion Runway
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged
Airport; Human Factors; Weather
Upon landing the Tower gave directions to exit the runway and I attempted to comply. A crosswind gust came at exactly that time and I was unable to control the airplane. The left wheel came into contact with the airport taxiway indicator sign at the right wheel and sheared off the gear. The airplane came to rest in the grassy area between the runway and the taxiway.The propeller contacted the ground and the engine stopped.There were no injuries.If the aircraft had not contacted the sign this would have not resulted in any damage to the aircraft. Maybe the signs could be constructed of a more forgiving material so that damage would not occur to the aircraft with incidental contact. There was no damage to the signage.Also; Tower should have waited for me to request an exit after finishing my landing. Rather than make a hasty demand for my exit. I understand that I did not have to attempt that particular taxiway exit. And could have requested an alternative.
Citabria pilot reported loss of control and runway excursion during landing resulting in aircraft damage.