Question 230 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is D) When action by the give-way vessel alone cannot prevent collision. The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) state that the stand-on vessel should maintain its course and speed, unless taking such action is the only way to avoid a collision. Option D correctly reflects this rule - the stand-on vessel should change course and speed only when the give-way vessel's actions alone are insufficient to prevent a collision. The other options are incorrect. Option A is wrong because the distance between the vessels is not the determining factor. Option B is incorrect because the give-way vessel sounding a signal does not obligate the stand-on vessel to change course. Option C is wrong because the stand-on vessel does not have an absolute right of way and must take action if necessary.