The level of ground deformations caused by lateral spreading is influenced by the ground slope, depth of the water table, density of the soil beneath the water table, and the strength of the ground shaking caused by the earthquake. The mechanics of lateral spreading are quite complex, so ground surface deformations are currently predicted using empirical models calibrated against lateral spreading behavior observed in past earthquakes. Subsurface ground deformations can also be important, particularly for structures such as bridges supported on piles that extend through liquefiable soils into underlying stable deposits.
Mitigation of lateral spreading hazards usually involves densification, reinforcement, or cementation of the liquefaction-susceptible soil. A wide variety of construction methods are available to reduce lateral spreading hazards.