USCG Exam PracticeRule 14 — Head-on Situation
Under the Inland Navigation Rules, when a vessel is in doubt as to whether a head-on situation exists, she shall:
- A. Assume it is a crossing situation and keep out of the way if the other vessel is on her starboard side.
- B. Maintain course and speed until the situation is clarified by radio.
- ✓ Assume that a head-on situation exists and act accordingly.Correct
- D. Sound the doubt signal and await the other vessel's maneuvering signal before acting.
Why C is correct
33 CFR §83.14(c) expressly requires that when in any doubt as to whether a head-on situation exists, the vessel shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly. The Rules do not permit a vessel to default to the crossing rule or to wait passively.
Cited:33 CFR §83.14