In order for a stand-on vessel to take action in a crossing situation, she must determine that the other vessel

In order for a stand-on vessel to take action in a crossing situation, she must determine that the other vessel

• A. is not taking appropriate action
• B. is not within range
• C. is moving faster than you
• D. is on a crossing course

Answer: (A)

In a crossing situation, the stand-on vessel keeps her course and speed unless it becomes clear that the other vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision. “Not taking appropriate action” means the other vessel isn’t following the rules to avoid a collision, such as failing to alter course or reduce speed when required. If that happens, the stand-on may take action to avoid collision. The other options don’t fit because range, relative speed, or simply being on a crossing course aren’t by themselves the trigger to act. It’s the other vessel’s failure to comply with the collision-avoidance rules that justifies taking action.

In a crossing situation, the stand-on vessel keeps her course and speed unless it becomes clear that the other vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision. “Not taking appropriate action” means the other vessel isn’t following the rules to avoid a collision, such as failing to alter course or reduce speed when required. If that happens, the stand-on may take action to avoid collision.

The other options don’t fit because range, relative speed, or simply being on a crossing course aren’t by themselves the trigger to act. It’s the other vessel’s failure to comply with the collision-avoidance rules that justifies taking action.