Question 23 GLI07 - OUPV

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (Correct Answer):** Option D states: "if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change." This is a direct quotation or very close paraphrase of the primary criterion used to determine risk of collision under both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs, Rule 7(b)) and the Inland Rules (which mirror the COLREGs on this point). A steady compass bearing signifies that the vessels are closing on courses that will eventually intersect at the same point, meaning there is an immediate risk of collision. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** **A) whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel:** While crossing ahead is part of the crossing situation rules (Rule 15), this maneuver does not automatically mean risk of collision exists. The risk of collision exists before the vessels are actively maneuvering, and the bearing stability (Rule 7) is the definitive test for risk, not merely crossing tracks. **B) if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking:** Overtaking is a specific defined situation (Rule 13), and while risk of collision certainly exists in this situation, the fundamental definition of when risk is *deemed* to exist (Rule 7) is based on the bearing test (D). The rules require checking for risk in all situations, including overtaking, using the criteria in Rule 7. **C) whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions:** Vessels approaching from opposite directions describes a head-on situation (Rule 14). However, vessels approaching from opposite directions may still pass safely clear of each other (e.g., if one is far to the port side of the other). Risk is only deemed to exist if the bearing remains steady, making the general description of "opposite directions" too broad to be the definitive rule stated in COLREGs 7(b).