Data Disclaimer
Source of data
BridgeHealth displays inspection data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) National Bridge Inventory (NBI), a public dataset updated annually and published at fhwa.dot.gov. The NBI contains inspection records for more than 620,000 highway bridges on public roads across the United States.
What the condition ratings mean
Bridge inspectors rate key structural components — deck, superstructure, and substructure — on a scale of 0 to 9, where 9 is excellent and 0 is a failed condition. BridgeHealth summarises these ratings as follows:
- Good — minimum component rating of 7 or above. No significant deficiencies.
- Fair — minimum component rating of 5 or 6. Minor to moderate deterioration noted; maintenance likely planned.
- Poor — minimum component rating of 4 or below. The bridge has been flagged for repair attention. This does not mean the bridge is unsafe or closed.
A bridge classified as "Structurally Deficient" means one or more components scored 4 or below, or the bridge has insufficient load capacity. Structurally deficient bridges are not automatically unsafe — the designation triggers priority review and funding for repair, not closure.
Data currency and accuracy
The NBI is updated annually, with final data published by the FHWA each June. BridgeHealth reflects the most recent available annual submission. Conditions may have changed since the last inspection. Bridges are typically inspected every 24 months; some require more frequent inspection.
BridgeHealth makes no warranty, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the data displayed. The information is provided for general public awareness purposes only.
Not a safety assessment
Nothing on BridgeHealth constitutes a professional engineering assessment, a safety certification, or advice about whether any bridge is safe to use. Bridge safety determinations are made by licensed engineers and the relevant state and federal transportation authorities — not by this website.
If you have a specific safety concern about a bridge, contact the relevant state Department of Transportation or the FHWA directly.
Limitation of liability
BridgeHealth, its operators, and its contributors shall not be liable for any loss, injury, or damage arising from reliance on the data displayed on this site. Use of this site is at your own risk.
Contact
Questions about this disclaimer may be directed to hello@bridgehealth.net