A simplified rational method is developed to evaluate transverse earthquake-induced forces in continuous bridges. This method models the bridge as a beam on elastic foundation, and assumes a sinusoidal curve for both vibration mode shape and deflected shape in the transverse direction. The principle of minimum total potential is used to calculate the displacements and the earthquake-induced forces in the transverse direction. This method is concise and easy to apply, and hence, offers an attractive alternative to a lengthy and time consuming three dimensional modeling of the bridge as given by AASHTO under its Single Mode Spectral Analysis Method.