Question 1 GLI08 - Limited OUPV

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation of Option A (Correct Answer):** Option A ("if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other") is a direct quotation from Rule 15 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (as the Inland Rules generally mirror this provision). Rule 15, titled "Crossing situation," states: > "(a) When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, **if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.**" This rule clearly defines the primary action required of the give-way vessel (the one with the other vessel to starboard). While the rule requires the give-way vessel to take early and substantial action to keep out of the way, the specific mandate provided in option A is the statutory requirement related to the manner in which the give-way vessel must maneuver (i.e., not crossing ahead if possible). **Explanation of Options B, C, and D (Incorrect Answers):** **B) reduce her speed (Incorrect):** While reducing speed is one potential action available to a give-way vessel under Rule 8 ("Action to avoid collision"), it is not the *required* action specified in the rule defining the crossing maneuver (Rule 15) or the general action rules (Rule 16, "Action by the give-way vessel"). The required action is to keep out of the way. If the vessel is moving and risk of collision exists, merely reducing speed (without altering course substantially) may not be sufficient or timely to fulfill the requirement of keeping clear, especially if the stand-on vessel is maintaining speed. It is a tool, but not the specific required statutory action listed in the primary maneuvering rules for this situation. **C) change course to port to keep out of the way (Incorrect):** This is explicitly discouraged, if not prohibited, as a primary action in a crossing situation involving risk of collision. Rule 19(d)(i) (for restricted visibility) specifically warns against turning to port for a vessel forward of the beam. More importantly, the general principle of good seamanship (and the desire to avoid confusion or a starboard-to-starboard crossing when a clear astern maneuver is available) dictates that the give-way vessel should generally turn to starboard to pass astern of the stand-on vessel, or utilize speed changes or stopping. A turn to port increases the risk of collision by placing the vessel directly into the path of the stand-on vessel unless the action is taken very early and the stand-on vessel is far off the port bow. **D) All of the above (Incorrect):** Since options B and C are either incomplete or incorrect interpretations of the required statutory action, this option cannot be correct.