Corrosion of steel bars in reinforced concrete structures is a major durability problem for bridges constructed in the New York State (NYS). The heavy use of deicing salt compounds this problem. Corrosion of steel bars results in loss of steel cross section, deterioration of bond between concrete and reinforcing bars, and more important, in most cases, it results in unsymmetrical concrete section that is susceptible to shear stresses produced by torsion.

The findings of this investigation suggest the need for seismic retrofit of deteriorated reinforced concrete bridge columns, particularly, those with corroded lap splice in the longitudinal reinforcement. The study also suggests the need for retrofit of corroded pedestal over piers and abutments, as they may cause sudden unseating of girders.

The objectives of this research were to ascertain whether the legislation has had any effect on actual crash and citation data as well as understanding whether NJ drivers know about the ban and their attitudes toward the phone and text use while driving and the legislative ban.