Is Your Local Bridge Falling Down? On Failing U.S. Infrastructure

The U.S. government inspects and tracks infrastructure to prioritize repairs and replacement efforts. And our structural collapse injury attorneys note that the government’s inspections have indicated that 1 out of every 9 bridges in the United States are currently “structurally deficient” or just plain not in good shape.

The approximately 67,000 U.S. bridges designated structurally deficient, while not necessarily in imminent danger of collapse, require load limits and other restrictions in order to be suitable for continued use. For instance, the recent collapse of the I-5 bridge over the Skagit River near Seattle was blamed in part on an oversized load.

Our structural collapse injury attorneys point out that many bridges are “fracture critical” and do not have any structural redundancy. If any structural support fails, the whole bridge collapses. Such was the case with the I-5 bridge near Seattle and the I-35 bridge in Minneapolis, the collapse of which killed 13 people and injured over 100 more. (Source: Brian Naylor, Utah Public Radio, 6/1/13)

Other bridges are designated “functionally obsolete.” These older bridges do not meet current design standards. Their lanes may narrower than on current bridges. Or the bridge may have low overhead clearance. 18-wheelers regularly get stuck under such bridges when trucking route planners don’t take proper note of all clearance heights.

Much of the U.S. infrastructure (and also the Canadian infrastructure) is aging. But replacing and rebuilding is expensive. Carbon nanotube fibers are being added to some bridges to help keep tabs on their structural soundness and also strengthen their supports. But a solution that will ensure the continuing safety of our transportation infrastructure continues to elude government officials, transportation experts, and scientists alike. So drive carefully.

Contact the Structural Collapse Injury Attorneys at Denena Points, PC if You or Your Loved Ones have been Hurt in a Collapse Accident

We provide a free, no obligation initial legal consultation to discuss your accident. And our more than 16 years of experience successfully resolving complex injury cases could help you understand your legal options and potential for a full financial recovery for your needless injuries. Call us at 281-369-4363 or reach us through our online contact form to schedule your free legal consultation, and let us help you recover.