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Boating Safety
The nautical Rules of the Road must be followed to prevent
collisions between vessels. Like traffic laws for automobiles, the
operator is legally required to follow the rules.
Encountering Another Vessel
Any time two vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has
the right-of-way. It is called the “stand-on” or “privileged vessel”. The
vessel which does NOT have the right-of-way is called the “give-way”
or “burdened vessel”. These rules determine which vessel has the
right-of-way, and accordingly, what each vessel should do.
Privileged Vessel
The privileged vessel has the right-of-way and has the duty to
continue its course and speed, except to avoid an immediate
collision. When you maintain your direction and speed, the other
vessel will be able to determine how best to avoid you.
In general, boats with less maneuverability have right of way over
more agile crafts. You must stay clear of the vessel with right of
way and pass to his stern.
Sailboats and boats paddled or rowed have the right of way over
motor boats. Sailboats under power are considered motorboats.
Small pleasure craft must yield to large commercial boats in narrow
channels.
Collisions between boats can cause death
or serious injury.
Keep a proper lookout, safe speed, and follow the
nautical “Rules of the Road.”
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