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OPERATION
Navigational Rules
Rule 2
Rule 2 is “The General Prudential Rule” of the
International Rule. This rule states that all operators have
the responsibility of taking action to avoid a collision.
All vessels involved in a potential collision become
give-way vessels.
Encountering Vessels
There are three main situations in which you may
encounter other vessels:
S Overtaking (passing)
S Meeting (approaching another vessel head-on)
S Crossing (traveling across another vessel’s path)
Meeting Vessels
When meeting another power vessel head-on and a
collision appears likely, neither vessel has the
right-of-way. Both vessels are obligated to alter course
to avoid an accident. Keep the other vessel to your port
(left) side and take evasive action to the starboard
(right) side (1). This rule does not apply if you’ll be
clear of the other vessel by maintaining your course
and speed (2).
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