USCG Exam PracticeRule 14 — Head-on Situation
Vessel A is proceeding downbound on the Western Rivers and meets Vessel B proceeding upbound. Under the Inland Rules, which statement correctly describes their obligations?
- A. Vessel B, being upbound, has the right-of-way and shall initiate the maneuvering signals.
- B. Each vessel shall alter course to starboard with neither vessel having priority.
- ✓ Vessel A, being downbound with a following current, has the right-of-way and shall propose the manner of passage.Correct
- D. The vessel with the other on her starboard side shall keep out of the way as in any crossing situation.
Why C is correct
33 CFR §83.14(d) provides that on the Western Rivers a power-driven vessel proceeding downbound with a following current has the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner of passage, and shall initiate the maneuvering signals under Rule 34(a)(i). This is an express exception to the standard head-on rule in §83.14(a).