Which term refers to the surface of the bridge that vehicles travel on?

• A. Bridge deck
• B. Bridge deck system
• C. Deck slab
• D. Roadbed

Answer: (A)

The surface of the bridge that vehicles travel on is called the deck. The deck is the top platform that carries traffic loads and transfers them into the supporting girders or beams. A deck slab is a specific construction form of the deck, typically a concrete layer that forms the actual riding surface. A bridge deck system refers to the entire assembly around the deck—pavement or wearing surface, waterproofing, drainage, expansion joints, and how it connects to the superstructure. Roadbed means the prepared foundation or base for road traffic, usually on the ground, not the surface on a bridge.