Roadway/ Bridges

Roadway/Highway

Over 40,000 people are fatally injured on our nation’s roadways each year. Accidents occur along the roadway and many at intersections, which are points of conflict for vehicles. Roadway accidents can result in injury to drivers and passengers which can then become involved in the litigation process. When evaluating roadways it is important to note that many of these pathways have evolved over time. What was once an animal trail became an Indian path, which became a dirt road, and then a paved road. An engineering evaluation of the roadway where the incident occurred, the adjacent areas, and the vehicles, if required, is essential in the litigation process. From this evaluation, engineering conclusions and opinions can be reached regarding the actions of the drivers, vehicles, and the design, construction, and maintenance of the roadway itself. Roadways should be designed in accordance with established codes and standards. Each state has established its own codes and standards. If a roadway is upgraded or rehabilitated, then certain aspects of that roadway may be required to be upgraded to the standards and codes in place at the time of the upgrade or rehabilitation. An engineer trained and experienced in highway/roadway design is an essential asset in the evaluation and preparation of the roadway matter that is involved in, or has the potential for litigation.

Bridges

Bridges are structures, which provide safe passage for vehicular, railroad and/or pedestrian traffic over areas such as waterways, roadways, railroad thoroughfares, and topography differences such as ravines and valleys. On specific occasions, there have been incidents at these structures, which involved collapses, component failures, construction, maintenance, condition inspection, and/or traffic on or under the bridge. These incidents require an evaluation of the incident circumstances and the bridge structure, which could include design, construction, maintenance, and/or rehabilitation of the bridge and the standards and codes in place at the time that each of these was performed. Bridge inspections can also involve Federal codes and certain federal requirements for bridges within the United States. An engineer well versed in bridge design, construction, maintenance, inspection and/or rehabilitation and also familiar with standards and codes that govern each aspect of the bridge can assist a client in the evaluation and preparation of specific bridge matters that are in or have the potential for future litigation. Consulting Engineers & Scientists, Inc. has the expertise and experience, as well as the synergy with other disciplines if required, to evaluate roadway and bridge incidents. We can provide our clients with direction and guidance that is understandable, efficient, and cost effective.