USCG Exam PracticeRule 14 — Head-on Situation
A vessel's officer of the watch is uncertain whether an approaching power-driven vessel presents a head-on or crossing situation. Under the Inland Rules, what is the required action?
- A. Contact the other vessel by radiotelephone to determine the situation before taking any action.
- B. Assume a crossing situation exists and keep out of the way if the other vessel is on the starboard side.
- ✓ Assume a head-on situation exists and act accordingly.Correct
- D. Maintain course and speed until the situation becomes clear.
Why C is correct
33 CFR §83.14(c) explicitly states that when a vessel is in any doubt as to whether a head-on situation exists, she shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly. This conservative requirement prevents a vessel from defaulting to a crossing scenario when doubt exists.
Cited:33 CFR §83.14(c)