Question 2483 Deck General

The correct answer is B) it is pulled sideways by the tow. A towing vessel can be "tripped" or rendered unstable when it is pulled sideways by the tow. This can occur if the towing hawser (line) creates excessive lateral force on the towing vessel, causing it to lose maneuverability and possibly capsize. The other options are incorrect because: A) the weight of the hawser alone does not typically cause loss of maneuverability, C) fouling the propeller would stall the vessel rather than trip it, and D) being overtaken by the tow is not a common cause of tripping.