Question 791 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is B) the lights required of a power-driven vessel, not towing. According to the Navigation Rules, International and Inland, Rule 24(a), a vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside shall exhibit the lights prescribed for a power-driven vessel. Since the towing vessel and barge are rigidly connected in a composite unit, the towing vessel must show the lights required of a power-driven vessel, not the lights of a barge being pushed ahead. The other options are incorrect because a towing vessel pushing a barge ahead does not show the lights required of a vessel pushing ahead (option A), nor the lights of the barge being pushed (option C). Option D is also incorrect, as the proper lights to be shown are those of a power-driven vessel, not a combination of options.