Rules of the Road · General & Definitions
Rule 2 of 72 COLREGS addresses responsibility. Which statement correctly reflects Rule 2?
- AThe rules must be followed exactly as written regardless of circumstances
- BThe owner and master are jointly liable for any collision regardless of compliance
- CDeparting from the rules is permitted to avoid immediate danger when strict compliance would increase the risk✓ Correct
- DThe stand-on vessel bears no responsibility once the give-way vessel has altered course
Explanation
Rule 2(b) — the 'general prudential rule' — allows departure from the rules when necessary to avoid immediate danger. This reflects that seamanship and good judgment must override mechanical rule-following in extremis. Neither vessel is absolved of responsibility simply because the other vessel is the give-way.
Authority: 72 COLREGS Rule 2(b)
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