Traffic Laws & Regulations Flashcards

When two powerboats are crossing paths and a collision risk exists, which boat is the 'give-way' vessel?

Answer: The boat on the port side

In a crossing situation, the vessel that has the other on its starboard (right) side is the give-way vessel and must yield.

What does a vessel's 'stand-on' obligation require?

Answer: Maintain course and speed while the give-way vessel maneuvers

The stand-on vessel must maintain its course and speed so the give-way vessel can predict its position and maneuver accordingly.

Under the Navigation Rules, a 'narrow channel' rule requires vessels to:

Answer: Keep as far to the starboard side of the channel as is safe and practicable

Vessels in narrow channels must keep to the starboard (right) side to allow safe two-way traffic.

Which signal should a powerboat sound when overtaking another vessel on the overtaken vessel's port side?

Answer: Two short blasts

Two short blasts signal intent to pass on the port side; one short blast signals intent to pass on the starboard side.

What is the maximum federal speed limit when within 100 feet of a swimmer in open water?

Answer: 5 mph

Federal law limits speed to 5 mph within 100 feet of a swimmer in open water to prevent injury.

A vessel engaged in fishing with nets that restrict maneuverability displays which day shape?

Answer: Two cones apex-to-apex

A vessel engaged in fishing (trawling) that restricts maneuverability displays two cones with apexes together (like an hourglass).

Under the Inland Navigation Rules, vessels in a head-on situation must:

Answer: Both vessels alter course to starboard to pass port-to-port

In a head-on situation both vessels must turn to starboard so they pass each other on the port (left) side.