What parameter is essential to check when evaluating bridge piers?

When evaluating bridge piers, stability under lateral loads is a critical parameter to assess due to the forces that can act on the structure during events such as high winds, earthquakes, or vehicle collisions. Piers must not only support vertical loads from the bridge deck and traffic but must also resist and maintain stability against lateral forces. If a pier cannot withstand these lateral loads, it may lead to structural failure, compromising the safety of the bridge and its users.

Understanding the stability under lateral loads involves examining factors like the pier's height, cross-section, foundation, and the soil conditions surrounding it. Assessing this helps ensure that the pier can withstand the dynamic forces it might encounter over its lifespan, making it fundamental to the bridge's overall integrity and safety.