A civil engineer is tasked with designing a bridge to span a river in a region prone to seismic activity. Which of the following considerations should the engineer prioritize to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the bridge during seismic events?

A$)$ Minimizing the bridge's total length to reduce material costs.

B$)$ Incorporating flexible joints at key points along the bridge to absorb seismic forces.

C$)$ Increasing the bridge's width to accommodate heavier loads and traffic flow.

D$)$ Choosing a construction material known for its aesthetic appeal rather than seismic resilience.

E$)$ Placing the bridge supports directly into the riverbed to maximize stability.