USCG Exam PracticeRule 14 — Head-on Situation
Under the Inland Navigation Rules, when two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision, what action is required of each vessel?
- ✓ Each vessel shall alter course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other.Correct
- B. The vessel with the other on her starboard side shall keep out of the way.
- C. Each vessel shall reduce speed and sound the danger signal.
- D. The vessel proceeding downbound shall propose the manner of passage.
Why A is correct
33 CFR §83.14(a) requires that in a head-on situation, unless otherwise agreed, each power-driven vessel shall alter course to starboard so that each passes on the port side of the other. Option B describes the crossing rule (§83.15), not the head-on rule.
Cited:33 CFR §83.14(a)