What does the term "vehicular load" refer to in the context of bridge inspection?

The term "vehicular load" in the context of bridge inspection refers specifically to the total weight of vehicles supported by a bridge. This encompasses not only the weight of individual vehicles but also their combined weight when multiple vehicles are present on the structure simultaneously. Understanding vehicular load is critical during inspections as it directly impacts the safety, strength, and integrity of the bridge.

Evaluating the total weight helps engineers assess whether the bridge can safely support the current traffic conditions. By identifying the vehicular load, inspectors can determine if the bridge meets specified loading criteria and can safely accommodate traffic without risking structural damage or failure. Thus, acknowledging and quantifying vehicular load is fundamental for effective bridge safety inspection practices.