Which devices are used to protect bridges from vessel impact?

Answer: C — Dolphins, fenders, and shear fences

Devices such as dolphins, fenders, and shear fences are specifically designed to protect bridges from vessel impact. Dolphins are structures built into the waterway, serving as a protective barrier to deflect ships and prevent them from hitting the bridge structure. Fenders, often seen along docks and piers, absorb the kinetic energy of incoming vessels, thereby reducing the potential for damage to both the bridge and the vessels. Shear fences are barriers placed to help guide or redirect vessels and prevent them from directly impacting the bridge. Collectively, these devices work with the goal of safeguarding bridges from collisions that could cause structural damage, thus maintaining their integrity and safety for vehicular and pedestrian traffic.