USCG Exam PracticeRule 2 — Responsibility
A vessel complies with every explicit provision of the Inland Navigation Rules but fails to take a precaution that any competent mariner would recognize as necessary given the prevailing conditions. Under Rule 2, this vessel:
- A. Is fully exonerated because it complied with all explicit Rules
- B. Is exonerated only if the master held a valid USCG license at the time
- ✓ May still be held responsible for neglect of the ordinary practice of seamenCorrect
- D. Is exonerated because Rule 2 only applies when the Rules are violated
Why C is correct
33 CFR §83.02(a) states that nothing in the Rules shall exonerate any vessel, owner, master, or crew from the consequences of neglect of any precaution required by the ordinary practice of seamen or by the special circumstances of the case. Compliance with explicit Rules does not automatically exonerate a party from this broader standard.
Cited:33 CFR §83.02