If the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, which vessel may take action to avoid collision?

If the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, which vessel may take action to avoid collision?

• A. Stand-on
• B. Give-way
• C. Both
• D. None

Answer: (D)

The situation hinges on the obligation to avoid collision and what happens when the other vessel fails to act. Under the rules, the give-way vessel must take early and substantial action to avoid a collision. The stand-on vessel should maintain course and speed unless it becomes clear the other vessel is not acting as required. If the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, the duty to prevent a collision may shift, and the stand-on vessel may take action to avoid collision. This can include altering course, adjusting speed, or taking other prudent maneuvering to keep clear, while continuing to monitor the other vessel. In practice, the key idea is that a vessel may step in to avoid collision when the other vessel isn’t responding, rather than waiting for the non‑complying vessel to correct its course.

The situation hinges on the obligation to avoid collision and what happens when the other vessel fails to act. Under the rules, the give-way vessel must take early and substantial action to avoid a collision. The stand-on vessel should maintain course and speed unless it becomes clear the other vessel is not acting as required. If the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, the duty to prevent a collision may shift, and the stand-on vessel may take action to avoid collision. This can include altering course, adjusting speed, or taking other prudent maneuvering to keep clear, while continuing to monitor the other vessel. In practice, the key idea is that a vessel may step in to avoid collision when the other vessel isn’t responding, rather than waiting for the non‑complying vessel to correct its course.