Question 31 RVR05 - Master of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation of why option A is correct:** Option A, "Assist in taking whatever action is necessary to avoid collision," is correct based on Rule 17(b) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), which applies to both international and inland waters. Rule 17 addresses the action of the stand-on vessel. While the stand-on vessel is normally required to maintain its course and speed (Rule 17(a)(i)), Rule 17(b) is the exception for immediate danger: > "The stand-on vessel may take action to avoid collision by her manoeuvre alone, **as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action** as required by these Rules." Furthermore, Rule 17(c) mandates action when a collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel's action alone: > "**When, from any cause, the stand-on vessel finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to avoid collision.**" This obligation means that in a situation of immediate danger, the stand-on vessel must assist in taking necessary maneuvers (such as turning, slowing, or speeding up) to prevent the collision. **Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) Abandon ship:** This action is an emergency measure taken only after a collision has occurred or is absolutely imminent and unavoidable, not a maneuver to prevent the collision. The primary duty of the crew is to prevent the accident first. * **C) Hold course and speed until the danger of collision is past and clear:** This is the general requirement for the stand-on vessel (Rule 17(a)(i)), but it becomes incorrect and dangerously passive when the two vessels are in *immediate danger* of collision. Under those extreme circumstances (Rule 17(c)), maintaining course and speed violates the duty to take evasive action. * **D) Sound a distress signal:** A distress signal (such as "Mayday") indicates that the vessel is in grave and imminent danger and requires assistance. While the vessel is certainly in grave danger, the immediate priority in collision avoidance is maneuvering the ship to prevent the crash, not simply signaling for help. Maneuvering action (Rule 17(c)) takes precedence over signaling a general distress.