Rules of the Road · Maneuvering Signals (Intent vs Action)
Under the U.S. Inland Navigation Rules, a short blast on the whistle by a power-driven vessel means:
- AI am altering my course to starboard
- BI intend to leave you on my port side✓ Correct
- CI am altering my course to port
- DI intend to overtake you on your starboard side
Explanation
Under Inland Rule 34(a), one short blast means 'I intend to leave you on my port side' — a signal of INTENT requiring agreement. This contrasts with 72 COLREGS Rule 34(a), where one short blast is a signal of ACTION meaning 'I am altering course to starboard.'
Authority: Inland Rule 34(a)
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