This book discusses the science behind bridge collapses and their effects. The chapters examine historical bridge collapses, explain how bridges are designed and built, and show how scientists and engineers are working to prevent future collapses. Diagrams, charts, and photos provide opportunities to evaluate and understand the scientific concepts involved.

"'A bridge shouldnt just fall down,' Senator Amy Klobuchar said after the August 1, 2007, collapse of the Minneapolis I-35W eight-lane steel truss bridge, which killed 13 motorists, injured 145, and left a collective wound on the citys psyche and infrastructure. On her way to a soccer game with a fellow teammate, Kimberly J. Brown experienced the collapse firsthand, falling 114 feet in her teammates car to the Mississippi River. Although terrified,...