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 situation or a crossing situation. Under Inland Rule 14, what is the required action?
- A. Maintain course and speed until the situation is clearly determined.
- B. Contact the other vessel by radiotelephone before taking any action.
- ✓ Assume a head-on situation exists and act accordingly.Correct
- D. Assume a crossing situation exists and keep out of the way if the other vessel is to starboard.
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. Doubt does not permit inaction or defaulting to crossing rules.
Cited:33 CFR §83.14