Question 21 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Explanation of why option C is correct:** Option C states that any action taken to avoid collision must "not result in another close-quarters situation." This is a direct paraphrase of a core requirement found in Rule 8(b) of the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, which are mirrored in Inland Rules): > Rule 8 – Action to Avoid Collision > (b) Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by radar; **a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided.** The phrase "a succession of small alterations... should be avoided" means that the action taken must be decisive and clear, ensuring that the vessel does not simply navigate into a new, potentially dangerous proximity with another vessel (or the same vessel after an ineffective maneuver). The goal of collision avoidance action is to establish a safe passing distance, meaning the action must not create a new close-quarters situation. 2. **Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) include a speed change:** This is incorrect because sufficient avoidance action can often be achieved solely through a large and timely alteration of course (Rule 19(d)(i)). While a speed reduction or stop (Rule 8(e)) is sometimes required, the rule only mandates an alteration of *course and/or speed* (Rule 8(b)), meaning a speed change is not mandatory for *every* avoidance action. * **B) be accompanied by sound signals:** This is incorrect. Sound signals (Rule 34) are generally required when altering course or speed in sight of another vessel only if the vessel is a **power-driven vessel** and the maneuver is relevant to the required signaling rules (e.g., turning to starboard, turning to port, or operating astern propulsion). If a vessel takes avoidance action solely by reducing speed without changing direction, or if the action is passive (like simply maintaining course and speed while a stand-on vessel), sound signals are not necessarily required. The rule mandates that the action itself must be safe and effective, but it does not mandate signals for *all* avoidance actions.