A bridge can survive earthquakes to complete its intended economic life

The life of a bridge may be cut short mainly by 1) Abutment failure 2) Loss of span 3) Insufficient ductility. This paper describes how such failures can occur and draws attention to precautionary measures. Such measures deal with adequate seat length, control of displacements, soil structure interaction, liquefaction, piles and piers designed for ductility, and preventing abutment failures.