What It Means
Federal law requires all public road bridges longer than 20 feet to be inspected at regular intervals, typically every 24 months. Inspections are performed by trained, certified inspectors who visually assess and rate each component. Certain bridges (underwater foundations, fracture critical members) require specialized inspection methods. States submit inspection results to the National Bridge Inventory. Bridges in poor condition may be inspected more frequently, sometimes annually or even quarterly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Bridge Inspection" mean?
A systematic examination of a bridge's structural components required by federal law at least every 24 months.
Why does Bridge Inspection matter for bridge safety?
Federal law requires all public road bridges longer than 20 feet to be inspected at regular intervals, typically every 24 months. Inspections are performed by trained, certified inspectors who visually assess and rate each component. Certain bridges (underwater foundations, fracture critical members...