In making appraisal ratings, consider the field condition, waterway adequacy, geometric and safety configurations, structural evaluation, and safe load capacity of the bridge. Appraisal ratings should be consistent among appraisers given the same field information, project plans, materials, and geometric and waterway data.

Evaluate several bridge features for their effect on the safety and serviceability of the bridge and its approaches. The intent is to compare the bridge to a new structure built to current standards. Different roadway standards - such as width, grade, and alignment - exist for the various roadway systems in Texas.s