Which item would be used to account for a narrow bridge in the inspection process?

• A. Approach Roadway Alignment
• B. Structural Capacity
• C. Deck Geometry
• D. Load-Carrying Capacity

Answer: (C)

Deck geometry focuses on the physical width and transverse layout of the bridge deck itself. When a bridge is narrow, its width and cross-sectional arrangement directly determine how safely vehicles can pass, how many lanes fit, and whether there’s adequate shoulder and barrier clearance. In the inspection, noting the deck geometry tells you if the deck can accommodate current or future traffic and highlights whether retrofits or widening might be needed.

The other aspects address different concerns: approach roadway alignment looks at how the road enters the bridge, not the deck’s own width; and structural capacity or load-carrying capacity assess how much load the structure can carry, not whether the deck’s geometry constrains its use.