Question 21

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Why option C ("not result in another close-quarters situation") is correct:** This requirement is explicitly stated in Rule 8(b) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and the Inland Rules. Rule 8(b) dictates the requirements for collision avoidance action, stating that "Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be **substantial** and be made in good time. Actions to avoid collision shall be such that they result in passing at a safe distance and **shall not result in a subsequent close-quarters situation**." Avoiding creating a new dangerous situation is a fundamental requirement of effective collision avoidance action. 2. **Why options A, B, and D are incorrect:** * **A) include a speed change:** While changes in speed are a required option under Rule 8(c) if a course change alone is insufficient, they are not universally mandatory for *any* action taken. A substantial course change alone is often the required and sufficient action to avoid a collision, especially when there is sufficient sea room (Rule 8(a)). Therefore, the action does not *have* to include a speed change. * **B) be accompanied by sound signals:** Sound signals are only required in specific situations, such as when altering course (Rule 34(a)) or when backing out of a slip (Rule 34(c)). If a vessel alters course and is clearly seen to do so, they must sound the signal (one short blast for starboard, two short blasts for port). However, if the avoidance action is simply reducing speed without altering course (which is permissible), no maneuvering sound signal is required under Rule 34. Since sound signals are conditional upon the type of maneuver, they are not mandatory for *any* action taken to avoid collision. * **D) All of the above:** Since options A and B are incorrect, this blanket statement must also be incorrect.