Bridge expansion joints are what allow the concrete to naturally expand and contract without cracking. The rubber expansion joints are placed at the end of a bridge where it meets up with the freeway. These connectors give the concrete just enough space to move and avoid concrete cracks.

Bridge expansion joints are designed to adjust its length accommodating movement or deformation by external loads, shrinkage, or temperature variations, and allow for continuous traffic between bridge structures and interconnecting structures (another bridge or abutment).