www.parkerboats.net
19
safety
CROSSING
In crossing situations, where two power boats meet, the boat to the right from the 12 o’clock to the 4
o’clock position has the right-of-way. It must hold course and speed. The burdened boat keeps clear
and passes behind the privileged boat. Power boats going up and down river have the privilege over
power boats crossing the river.
OVERTAKING
The boat that is overtaking one ahead of it is the burdened boat and must make any adjustments
necessary to keep out of the way of the privileged boat.
THE GENERAL PRUDENTIAL RULE
The general prudential rule regarding right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither
boat has right-of-way. As prescribed in the Rules of the Road, both boats must act to avoid collision.
NIGHT RUNNING
Boats operating between sunset and sunrise (hours vary by state) must use navigation lights.
Nighttime operation, especially during bad weather or fog can be dangerous.
ALL RULES OF WATER APPLY AT NIGHT, but it is best to slow down and stay clear
of all boats, regardless of who has right-of-way. Protect your night vision by avoiding
bright lights and have a passenger, if possible, help keep watch for other boats, water
hazards, and aids to navigation.