The dissemination of softwares that implement the Finite Element Method (FEM) influences the way the structural projects are made. For bridge projects, where the simplified methods have been for many years the main type of analysis, the FEM has become an important tool in the process. Currently the simplified methods complement the use of FEM in different ways, in the pre-dimensioning of the structural elements and providing an estimate of the shear and bending moments, reducing the possibility of errors during the design process. In the United States, AASHTO LRFD (2012) provides a simplified method for transverse wheel load distribution into their regulatory specifications that requires only the calculation of a load distribution factor. The objective of this work is to evaluate if this method can be used as a rational alternative for the design of bridges in Brazil. For this purpose, it was necessary to understand the difference between Brazilian and American standards, suggest a calculation model based on the American standard that meets Brazilian regulation and validate this model with FEM analysis and other simplified methods. The finite element models were validated by the comparison of the results of its analysis with the results of actual load tests on bridges performed by other authors. Safe results are obtained for all analyzed cases when using the proposed calculation model, therefore it was able to determine the transverse wheel load distribution and the maximum displacement of the stringers of bridges with only one span and concrete beams. In bridges with steel beams, the method also obtained safe results in the analysis of transverse wheel load distribution, but just as the others simplified methods, it is not able to determine the maximum displacements with high reliability. It follows, therefore, that the proposed methodology can be used in the design of bridges with one span in Brazil, if the applicability limits are specified.