It didn't completely fall apart, it just cracked it enough to be able to see some light coming through. The bike did tip over about 50 degrees and the rack took the blunt of impact & weight of the bike when it hit the garbage can. The crack appeard where the 3 bolts are bolding the rack in place. Basically between 2 of the bolts, like connecting the dots. It's still intact and quite sturdy as long as the weight is distributed over large surface.