Which is true about the stand-on vessel's first opportunity to act?

Which is true about the stand-on vessel's first opportunity to act?

• A. It is when the give-way vessel fails to act
• B. Immediately when risk exists
• C. Never
• D. Only after collision occurs

Answer: (D)

The stand-on vessel has its first opportunity to act the moment a risk of collision becomes apparent. From that instant, the stand-on should be prepared to take appropriate action to avoid a collision if the give-way vessel does not respond promptly with a safe maneuver. Waiting until a collision actually occurs is too late, and acting only after the other vessel fails to act ignores the need to prevent danger as soon as risk is detected. The stand-on vessel should not be restricted to acting only after the give-way vessel fails to act; risk recognition itself triggers the possibility of taking action.

The stand-on vessel has its first opportunity to act the moment a risk of collision becomes apparent. From that instant, the stand-on should be prepared to take appropriate action to avoid a collision if the give-way vessel does not respond promptly with a safe maneuver. Waiting until a collision actually occurs is too late, and acting only after the other vessel fails to act ignores the need to prevent danger as soon as risk is detected. The stand-on vessel should not be restricted to acting only after the give-way vessel fails to act; risk recognition itself triggers the possibility of taking action.