Rules of the Road

Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing.

Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed to take proper and effective action to avoid collision.

If the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not change, risk of collision exists.

When two power vessels meet head-on, both shall alter course to starboard so each passes on the port side of the other.

The vessel which has the other on her starboard side shall keep out of the way (give-way vessel).

Any vessel overtaking another shall keep clear of the vessel being overtaken.

A power-driven vessel shall keep out of the way of a sailing vessel.

Keep to the starboard (right) side of the channel. Small vessels shall not impede larger vessels confined to the channel.

The stand-on vessel shall maintain course and speed, but must act if the give-way vessel is not taking action.

The give-way vessel shall take early and substantial action to keep well clear.