What is the primary function of a bridge abutment?

The primary function of a bridge abutment is to support the ends of the bridge superstructure, which includes the deck and supporting beams or girders, while also connecting the bridge to the approaching roadway. Abutments transfer the vertical loads from the bridge to the foundation and resist horizontal forces, such as earth pressure from the soil behind them. They act as retaining walls, preventing soil from spilling onto the bridge approach. An abutment is typically made of reinforced concrete or masonry. Without an abutment, the bridge span would not have a stable, load-bearing end point, and the roadway would not smoothly transition onto the bridge. They are crucial for the structural stability and functionality of the bridge.