Question 914 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is C) The vessel is operating astern propulsion. The International and Inland Navigation Rules (Rule 34) state that a vessel operating with aft propulsion should exhibit three flashes of a white light to indicate this to other vessels in the area. This signal lets other vessels know that the ship is moving in reverse or using aft propulsion, which is important information for maintaining safe navigation. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the meaning of the three white flashes. Option A is incorrect as the signal does not indicate the vessel is intending to overtake another. Option B is incorrect as the signal does not indicate the vessel is in distress. Option D is incorrect as the signal does not indicate the vessel is approaching a bend in the channel.