Gephyrophobia (n): An abnormal and persistent fear of bridges, especially crossing bridges. Sufferers of this phobia experience undue anxiety even though they realize their fear is irrational. Their fear may result partly from the fear of enclosure (claustrophobia) or the fear of heights (acrophobia). Phobic drivers may worry about being in an accident in busy traffic or losing control of their vehicles. High bridges over waterways and gorges can be especially intimidating, as can be very long or very narrow bridges.

Cases of Gephyrophobia will be on the rise in America after a bridge collapse in Minnesota injured scores and killed 7. The bridge was part of an 8 lane highway that was a major artery for the city. The collapse is so bad that Twins home games will be canceled for the next few days. What is most incredible are the pictures of the carnage. People must have literally shit their pants when the bottom fell out of the bumper to bumper traffic they were sitting in.

Check out the video of the collapse after the jump. (more…)