Question 21 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Why option C ("not result in another close-quarters situation") is correct:** This requirement is explicitly mandated by Rule 8(b) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both international and Inland waters (as the Inland Rules generally mirror or adopt the relevant COLREGs rules for maneuverability). Rule 8(b) states that any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall be "large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel" and "should not result in a subsequent close-quarters situation." This makes C a mandatory condition for correct evasive action. 2. **Why options A, B, and D are incorrect:** * **A) include a speed change:** This is incorrect because Rule 8 specifies that action to avoid collision involves either an alteration of **course and/or speed**. A sufficient change in course alone (e.g., a sharp turn) is often the preferred and sometimes the only action necessary, making a speed change not strictly mandatory in every situation. * **B) be accompanied by sound signals:** This is incorrect. Sound signals (like the five short blasts "danger signal" or the signals indicating a course/speed change in sight of another) are only required under specific circumstances (Rules 34 and 35), often when in a narrow channel, when altering course and in sight of another vessel, or when in doubt about the other vessel's intentions. The general act of taking action to avoid collision does not **always** require an accompanying sound signal. For instance, a vessel maintaining course and slowing down in restricted visibility may not be required to signal that specific maneuver. * **D) All of the above:** Since A and B are not universally mandatory requirements for *any* action taken to avoid collision, D is incorrect. Only C is a universal mandate of effective collision avoidance action.