OBS Traffic Laws & Regulations 5

Question 1

Which color light indicates the port (left) side of a vessel at night?

Accepted Answer

Red

Answer

A red light on the port (left) side and a green light on the starboard (right) side are required navigation lights for vessels.

Question 2

When is a vessel considered to be 'underway' under navigation rules?

Accepted Answer

When it is not at anchor, made fast to shore, or aground

Answer

A vessel is underway whenever it is not anchored, moored, or aground — even if it is drifting with no engine power.

Question 3

What is the purpose of the 'Inland Navigation Rules' as distinct from 'International Rules'?

Accepted Answer

They govern vessel conduct on U.S. inland waters, while International Rules apply beyond 12 nautical miles offshore

Answer

Inland Rules apply inside the U.S. demarcation lines (inland waters), while International COLREGS apply on the high seas beyond those lines.

Question 4

A vessel displaying an all-around white light and no other lights at night is most likely:

Accepted Answer

A vessel at anchor or a small powerboat under 23 feet

Answer

Vessels under 23 feet (7 meters) may use a single all-around white light instead of separate port, starboard, and stern lights.

Question 5

Which statement about the 'Rules of the Road' hierarchy is correct when a stand-on vessel must take action?

Accepted Answer

If collision is imminent and the give-way vessel has not acted, the stand-on vessel must take the best action available to avoid collision

Answer

When collision becomes imminent and the give-way vessel has not acted, the stand-on vessel is required to take whatever action best avoids collision.

(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test