Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain airplane control during taxi, which resulted in a nose over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while taxiing for takeoff on a gravel bar, he encountered a slope. To prevent potential loss of control, he applied brake pressure to both wheels, causing the airplane to nose over, resulting in substantial damage to the rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.