Abstract:This paper was based on the engineering background of a simple bridge across the fault. According to the proposed pulse models, a set of synthetic fault crossing strong ground motions was generated and the finite element model of a simple bridge across the fault was built, utilizing the non uniform excitation nonlinear time history analysis method to investigate the effect of the fault rupture on a seismic isolated bridge. Two different bearing systems, without and with accounting for differential ground movement across the fault rupture, were considered in the analysis to evaluate and compare the performances of the structure. The analysis indicate that the fault crossing is an important factor in the earthquake response of seismically isolated bridges which increases the earthquake response of the structure larger.